The Northern Territory is bracing for a rare November cyclone as Tropical Cyclone Fina, now a category two storm, approaches the coast. The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued warnings as the system tracks towards Cape Don on the Cobourg Peninsula, with landfall expected on Saturday.
Communities along the coast are in preparation mode, with the cyclone predicted to pass over Melville Island and skirt the mainland north of Darwin. The NT capital is currently on the edge of the forecast zone for gale-force winds. A tropical cyclone warning is active between Cape Don and Warruwi, encompassing the Cobourg Peninsula and Minjilang, while a cyclone watch extends from Maningrida to Cape Hotham, including the Tiwi Islands.
Early Start to Cyclone Season
The BOM has noted that Cyclone Fina marks an unusually early start to the northern Australian cyclone season, which typically sees its first cyclone in December or January. Historical parallels include Severe Tropical Cyclone Ines in 1973 and Tropical Cyclone Alessia in 2011. BOM NT senior officer Jude Scott remarked on the early occurrence, stating, “It is an early start to the cyclone season this year.”
Destructive winds up to 155 kilometers per hour are expected within the warning zone, with flash flooding possible between Maningrida and the Tiwi Islands. The BOM has cautioned coastal residents about a dangerous storm tide as the cyclone center crosses the coast.
Community Preparedness and Response
In Darwin, NT Emergency Service (NTES) chief officer Wayne Snell advised residents to stay home, as most buildings are built to withstand cyclone conditions. Community shelters are available for those in need, although no evacuations are planned for remote communities at this stage. Residents are urged to prepare emergency kits and ensure they have adequate supplies.
On the Tiwi Islands, preparations are underway with additional police deployed to assist local communities. NT Police Acting Assistant Commissioner James O’Brien emphasized the importance of community resilience, with extra officers sent to Minjilang and Warruwi to aid preparations.
Local institutions like Tiwi College and the Nguiu Club are closing as a precaution, and ferry services between Bathurst and Melville Islands have been suspended. Sealink has also canceled its services between the Tiwi Islands and Darwin.
Impact on Daily Life
As Cyclone Fina approaches, Darwin residents have been stocking up on essentials, leading to shortages of bottled water, bread, and canned goods. Shoppers have shared their preparation plans, with some expressing concern over potential panic buying.
Meanwhile, arborists like Ben Atkinson Jr are helping residents by removing hazardous trees to minimize storm-related risks. Atkinson warned against complacency, noting the Territory’s vulnerability to falling trees due to high winds and other factors.
Travel and Infrastructure Disruptions
The impending cyclone has also affected travel plans, with some residents and visitors preparing for potential flight cancellations. Roads have been impacted as well, with Cahills Crossing in Kakadu National Park closed due to rising water levels. The NT Department of Logistics and Infrastructure has urged people not to attempt crossing, citing safety concerns.
As the Northern Territory braces for Cyclone Fina, authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, urging residents to stay informed and prepared for any developments.
