Tropical Cyclone Fina Lashes Darwin, Halting Operations
Australia's Northern Territory capital, Darwin, experienced the severe impact of Tropical Cyclone Fina over the weekend, leading to the closure of its international airport and widespread disruption. On Sunday, Cyclone Fina, categorized as a severe tropical cyclone, moved away from Darwin after unleashing destructive winds that peaked at gusts of up to 205 kilometers per hour (127 mph) late Saturday.
Echoes of Cyclone Tracy
The city, home to approximately 140,000 residents, found itself grappling with unsettling reminders of Cyclone Tracy, a devastating event on Christmas Day 1974 that claimed 66 lives and razed much of Darwin. The painful memories of that tragedy undoubtedly added to the apprehension as Fina approached.
Airport Remains Closed Amid Ongoing Hazards
Darwin International Airport, which had proactively ceased operations on Saturday as a precaution, confirmed on Sunday that it was "working to re-establish operations as soon as it is safe to do so." Persistent strong winds and heavy rainfall were cited on the airport's social media as reasons for the ongoing closure, prioritizing safety.
Safety Warnings and Damage Assessment Underway
Emergency services, including SecureNT, issued urgent advisories to residents Sunday morning, emphasizing the danger of downed powerlines and urging people to refrain from unnecessary travel or sightseeing. Power and Water Corporation crews commenced damage assessments, though an exact count of affected households remained unavailable. Early reports from the Australian Broadcasting Corp. indicated damage to several homes and infrastructure but fortunately, no serious injuries.
Understanding Cyclone Impact and Regional Context
Category three tropical cyclones, though two levels below the highest danger rating, are known for causing significant damage to structures, crops, and trees, often resulting in widespread power outages. This event follows a similar incident in March, when ex-tropical cyclone Alfred struck neighboring Queensland, forcing school closures and leaving hundreds of thousands without electricity, highlighting the recurrent threat of such weather phenomena in the region.
