Tropical Cyclone Kirrily Approaches Queensland Coast, Brings Heavy Rain and Strong Winds

Tropical Cyclone Kirrily has intensified to a category-two storm as it nears the Queensland coast, threatening heavy rain and wind gusts of up to 165km/h. The cyclone, named Kirrily, is expected to make landfall between Ingham and Bowen, in the area of Townsville. The Queensland premier, Steven Miles, has declared a disaster and requested assistance from the federal government and other states to prepare for the potential impact.

The State Emergency Service (SES) has already received 146 calls for assistance, mainly for sandbagging. The Townsville mayor, Jenny Hill, announced the issuance of an emergency alert advising people to shelter in place from 2pm local time due to forecasted wind gusts above 80km/h. Residents in the affected areas are advised to stay indoors and secure their properties until Friday morning.

The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) has warned that all communities within the warning zone are at risk of heavy rainfall and flash flooding over the next few days. Isolated rainfall of around 300mm is expected in the next 24 hours, along with a storm tide between Townsville and Mackay. Emergency alerts have been issued for several regions, including Townsville, Palm Island, Burdekin, Hinchinbrook, and Magnetic Island.

Cyclone Kirrily is likely to cause destructive winds, posing a threat to houses, caravans, and power lines. The state disaster coordinator, deputy commissioner Shane Chelepy, has urged residents to take necessary precautions and stay off the roads. Evacuation centers and cyclone shelters are available for those who do not feel safe in their homes.

As the cyclone approaches, schools have been closed, flights have been canceled, and power outages have already affected thousands of homes in Townsville and the Whitsundays. Water police and additional personnel are on standby to provide assistance. The BoM will continue to issue emergency updates hourly to keep residents informed.