North Queensland communities are now in the path of Tropical Cyclone Koji as the system begins to cross the coastline. The cyclone made landfall between the towns of Ayr and Bowen, bringing with it a significant threat of damaging weather.
Cyclone Downgraded But Danger Not Over
Koji was downgraded from a category two system overnight and is predicted to weaken rapidly once it moves inland, continuing on a westward track. Despite the reduction in intensity, authorities have issued stern warnings that the danger is far from passed.
The Bureau of Meteorology has emphasised that heavy rainfall remains the primary concern as the event unfolds. "Rain is going to be the main focal point, really, as today progresses," stated Bureau meteorologist Angus Hines.
While cyclone warnings for Townsville have been cancelled, the system has already packed a punch. Damaging wind gusts of up to 120km/h have been recorded across the Whitsunday Islands.
Ghost Towns and Major Flood Warnings
On the ground in Ayr, reporter Imogen Brooks described an eerie quiet. "Where I’m standing is near where the centre of that cyclone will be passing over very shortly, and it’s a ghost town here," Brooks said. "Residents have taken on that emergency advice to take shelter, and all we’ve seen are police doing patrols."
The forecast warns of widespread heavy rainfall capable of triggering flash flooding between Ingham and Proserpine. More intense downpours could lead to life-threatening flash flooding in areas between Townsville and Proserpine.
Major flood warnings are active for several river catchments, including:
- The Herbert River
- Haughton River Catchment
- Pioneer River
- Georgina River
- The Flinders and Cloncurry rivers
Emergency Services Mobilise Across Region
In preparation for the cyclone's impact, additional State Emergency Service (SES) personnel have been deployed to the Whitsunday Islands. They are working alongside Queensland Police and Queensland Ambulance officers to respond to any incidents.
Residents are being urged to remain vigilant and avoid all hazards. A critical warning has been issued to avoid fallen powerlines and report them immediately, with the reminder that any downed lines should be treated as live and extremely dangerous.
As Tropical Cyclone Koji moves inland, the focus for North Queensland firmly shifts from wind to water, with communities bracing for potential flooding in the hours and days ahead.
