Tropical Cyclone Fina has rapidly intensified into a severe Category 3 system, setting a dangerous course for Australia's Top End. The Bureau of Meteorology issued critical warnings on Saturday morning as the cyclone gained strength, posing a significant threat to communities including Darwin.
Severe Warnings and Destructive Wind Gusts
The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has warned that the severe storm could generate wind gusts of up to 224km/h, capable of causing substantial structural damage to buildings and properties. The situation is evolving rapidly, with the system moving westwards.
Very destructive wind gusts reaching 185km/h are likely along the southeastern coast of the Tiwi Islands, with a slight chance of these conditions impacting Wurrumiyanga later in the day. As the system progresses, destructive wind gusts of up to 140km/h may extend to the Northern Territory's capital, Darwin.
Current Location and Immediate Impacts
As of 7:30am Darwin time on Saturday, Cyclone Fina was positioned approximately 120km northeast of the city. The system was recorded with sustained winds near its centre of 120km/h and wind gusts peaking at 165km/h.
A cyclone warning zone is currently in effect for a large area, encompassing Darwin, the Cobourg Peninsula, the Tiwi Islands, and from Daly River Mouth to Warruwi, extending inland to Batchelor.
Heavy Rainfall and Flooding Risks
The BOM has highlighted a major concern for heavy rainfall leading to flash flooding. Coastal areas between the Tiwi Islands and Warruwi are at high risk, with the wet weather expected to extend across the western Top End, including Darwin, throughout Saturday and Sunday.
The severity of the rainfall is already evident, with Croker Island Airport in remote west Arnhem Land recording nearly 200mm of rainfall in the 24 hours leading up to Saturday morning.
Official Advice and Prime Minister's Concern
The NT Emergency Service is urging all residents in the cyclone's path to remain in a secure shelter while the destructive winds pass. They issued a specific caution: Do not venture outside if you find yourself in the eye of the cyclone — destructive winds from a different direction could resume at any time.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, speaking from South Africa, expressed his concern for those in the cyclone's path. He urged people to look after themselves and each other, adding, My thoughts are with people at this time and also with the emergency service workers and others who will be working hard.
