URGENT UPDATE: Destructive winds are currently battering remote communities in the Top End as Tropical Cyclone Fina intensifies, posing a significant threat to major population centers including Darwin. The cyclone has been upgraded to category three, with wind gusts reaching up to 185 km/h reported just northeast of Darwin.
At 10:30 AM Darwin time, Fina was located approximately 85 km northeast of the Northern Territory capital, with sustained winds near the center of 130 km/h. A cyclone warning is now in effect for Darwin, the Daly River Mouth to Cape Don, and the Tiwi Islands, as forecasters warn of potential structural damage.
The Bureau of Meteorology has cautioned that “very destructive wind gusts” are likely to affect exposed coastal areas northeast of Darwin today. Although the risk to Darwin itself is currently assessed as low, damaging wind gusts could still impact the city. Heavy rainfall is expected to lead to flash flooding, particularly in coastal regions between the Tiwi Islands and Warruwi over the weekend.
“My thoughts are with people at this time and also with the emergency service workers and others who will be working hard,”
stated Prime Minister Anthony Albanese from South Africa, urging residents in the cyclone’s path to prioritize safety.
The Northern Territory Emergency Service remains confident that most buildings in Darwin can withstand the storm’s intensity. Residents are advised to remain indoors as the destructive winds pass. Senior meteorologist Dean Narramore revealed that winds of 150 to 180 km/h are expected near the cyclone’s center, with gusts potentially reaching up to 120 km/h in Darwin. Such conditions are capable of causing significant property damage, including downed trees and power lines.
Reports indicate that some island communities have already experienced up to 200 mm of rain within 24 hours, with similar totals forecasted for Darwin. The overall impact will depend heavily on the exact trajectory and intensity of Fina. Narramore noted, “If it moves a bit further north, less impacts for Darwin, more impacts for the Tiwi. But if it wobbles a little bit further south this afternoon, we could see more impacts in Darwin.”
In the Tiwi Islands, Alice Williams, office coordinator for the Regional Council at Milikapiti, reported increasing winds and some community anxiety. Local sirens are on standby, signaling residents to seek shelter as conditions worsen. The community of around 500 has secured ample food, water, and fuel, with extra police officers deployed to assist.
As winds and rain intensify in Darwin, most businesses, including major supermarkets, have temporarily closed their doors. Authorities anticipate that conditions will improve by late Sunday as Fina moves towards Western Australia.
Historically, the region is reminded of the devastation caused by Cyclone Tracy in December 1974, which claimed 66 lives in Darwin. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and prepared as Cyclone Fina approaches.
Stay tuned for more updates as this situation develops.
