Residents Brace for Tropical Cyclone Kirrily’s Destructive Winds & Flooding Rain in Australian Northeast

Residents of Northern Australia are bracing themselves as Tropical Cyclone Kirrily approaches the northeast coast. The storm, which is predicted to bring destructive winds and heavy rainfall, is set to make landfall on Thursday. Townsville is expected to be directly affected by the cyclone, with gusts of up to 140 kph (87 mph) forecasted. The Bureau of Meteorology has warned of the potential for dangerous flash flooding and storm tides between Townsville and Mackay, urging residents to take necessary precautions. As a result, over 100 schools have been closed, and various Australia Day celebrations have been canceled. Airlines and rail services have also been disrupted due to the severe weather conditions. Residents of Hamilton Island have been advised to stay indoors, and a community refuge center has been established to provide shelter. The cyclone is expected to move inland, bringing heavy rain and an increased risk of flooding. Emergency services crews specializing in flood rescues have been deployed, and Queensland Premier Steven Miles has urged residents to ensure they are prepared for the worst. Tropical Cyclone Kirrily is the second such storm to hit the region in two months, following Tropical Cyclone Jasper in December.