Cape York Peninsula residents remain on high alert as Tropical Cyclone Narelle has unleashed torrential rains, severe flooding, and wind gusts exceeding 250 kilometers per hour. The cyclone made landfall as a category four storm on Friday morning before being downgraded to a category two as it moved towards the Cape’s western coast. The system is currently positioned approximately 255 kilometers west-south-west of Weipa.
The Bureau of Meteorology’s senior meteorologist, Angus Hines, indicated that the cyclone’s impact across northern Queensland is expected to ease today. “The heaviest of the rain has already fallen, the strongest of the winds have already blown through, and it will be a bit more relaxed when it comes to the overhead weather,” he stated. However, the primary concern remains the “immense amount of rainfall” affecting the Wenlock, Archer, and Pascoe rivers, likely leading to inundation and flooding.
Coastal Hazards and Community Impact
The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a coastal hazard warning for abnormally high tides, which may result in seawater flooding of low-lying coastal areas between Mapoon and Pormpuraaw. Areas potentially affected include Weipa, Aurukun, Pormpuraaw, Napranum, and Old Mapoon.
Queensland Premier David Crisafulli remarked that Cyclone Narelle “walked a tightrope” between Coen and Lockhart River, sparing major population centers from severe damage. “That was the best of both worlds on both sides… We couldn’t have asked for a better deal out of this,” he said. An assessment of the Aurukun foreshore, where some damage was reported, is scheduled soon.
Recovery Efforts Underway
Authorities are particularly concerned about a vessel in Princess Charlotte Bay that remains unreachable. Premier Crisafulli also plans to assess Port Stewart, east of Coen, today. Helicopters are currently evaluating damage across 16 communities, with power and telecommunications being the primary issues.
Ergon’s Emma Oliveri reported that approximately 1,000 properties remain without power across the Cape. “They’re going to be pulling out all stops to get the power back on to as many people as possible by tonight,” she said. However, access to remote communities is limited to air travel, as roads remain impassable.
Flooding Concerns and Community Resilience
Since 9 am Thursday, Fall Creek in the eastern Cape York Peninsula recorded the highest rainfall total of 422 millimeters, followed by 388mm at the Scherger RAAF base. Widespread power outages have resulted from the storm’s destructive winds and heavy rainfall, downing trees, roofs, and powerlines.
In Coen, Federal Member for Leichhardt Matt Smith expressed relief that residents had “dodged a bullet,” though vigilance remains due to potential flooding and ongoing rain. “There’s not much structural damage in Coen, everyone is safe and that is a fantastic outcome,” he noted. “Often with these cyclones, it’s the rain that gets us worse than the wind.”
Coen resident Sara Watkins said many locals spent last night at the local pub “celebrating our survival.”
Infrastructure and Supply Chain Challenges
Cook Shire mayor Robyn Holme reported that water has been restored in Coen with restrictions, and she is hopeful that power will be restored today. However, road transport remains a challenge, with no road access anticipated for four to five days. While food supplies are sufficient, fuel shortages are a concern.
Maritime Safety Queensland has advised Weipa residents they are unlikely to return home for several days, emphasizing that this is not a weekend for boating.
Aurukun and Lockhart River: A Closer Look
In Aurukun, power and communications are critical issues, but no significant structural damage or injuries have been reported. Lyndon Keane, the general manager of corporate services at Aurukun Shire Council, stated, “For the most part, Aurukun is working back up to getting back to business.”
Telstra and Ergon are expected to assess and restore services as soon as conditions permit. Lockhart Mayor Wayne Butcher highlighted the importance of reopening the airport, which was achieved after addressing runway issues caused by water.
Health and Safety Warnings
As recovery efforts continue, health authorities urge residents to exercise caution. The Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service advises wearing protective clothing, avoiding mosquitoes, and ensuring tetanus vaccinations are up to date. “There’s been a lot of media around melioidosis as well as leptospirosis … which we experience in the far north here, particularly during wet seasons,” Marlow Coates of the health service warned.
With the cyclone’s immediate threat diminishing, the focus shifts to recovery and rehabilitation. Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain emphasized the coordinated efforts of all government levels in supporting Far North Queensland’s recovery.
