Severe Tropical Cyclone Fina has caused widespread disruption across Australia’s Northern Territory, leaving nearly 20,000 without power and major roads blocked due to fallen trees and debris.
Cyclone Fina was the most powerful cyclone to hit Darwin since the devastating Cyclone Tracy, which struck the city on Christmas Day in 1974.
Wind gusts from Fina reached nearly 200km/h, but as of Sunday, no serious injuries have been reported, and early signs suggest property damage was less than anticipated.
The storm was upgraded to Category 3 as it made landfall in northern Australia on Saturday. The slower movement of the cyclone prolonged the severe weather, compounded rainfall, and increased the risk of property damage.
The cyclone prompted the closure of Darwin International Airport as a precautionary measure due to strong winds and safety concerns, leading to cancellations and delays across domestic and international services.
The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) reported on Sunday that Cyclone Fina was about 100 km west of Darwin, moving southwest at 9 km/h. Projections indicate the cyclone may strengthen to Category 4 as it heads towards Western Australia.
Communities along Western Australia’s Kimberley coast are on alert, with BOM warnings advising preparation for strong winds, heavy rain, and flooding risks. The cyclone is expected to make landfall in the Kimberley region mid-week, where it poses a continuing threat of property damage and disruption.
