Overview of Tropical Cyclone Megan
Tropical Cyclone Megan, a severe storm that formed over the Gulf of Carpentaria, near the island of Groote Eylandt, is currently moving south towards Australia’s Northern Territory (NT) and Queensland. The storm has developed into a category three cyclone and is expected to bring heavy rains, potentially destructive wind gusts, and widespread damage and flooding in coastal regions in the upcoming week.
Anticipated Impact and Preparations
- Australia’s Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) forecasts that Tropical Cyclone Megan will cross the Northern Territory town of Borroloola, prompting emergency services to advise residents to seek safe shelter elsewhere if necessary.
- NT Police Superintendent Sonia Kennon has highlighted the heightened risk in Borroloola due to the storm’s intensification and urged residents to stay indoors until authorities issue an all-clear.
- There is a 20% chance that Megan could escalate into a category four storm upon landfall, according to BOM’s assessments.
Development and Landfall Projections
The storm, initially a category-two cyclone, has intensified as it heads towards the Queensland and NT border. Megan is projected to make landfall as a category three storm late Monday or early Tuesday near the border area.
Potential Destructive Impact
BOM has warned of a “very destructive core” within Tropical Cyclone Megan upon landfall, particularly affecting coastal regions between Nathan River and the border. Residents are advised to be cautious of the expected “very dangerous storm tide” associated with the system.
Situation in Groote Eylandt
A cyclone alert spans from Groote Eylandt to Mornington Island, including the inland town of Borroloola. Concerns have been raised for remote indigenous communities on Groote Eylandt, where heavy rainfall has caused significant damage and disruptions to daily life.