Residents and tourists in the renowned tourist destination of Cairns may soon experience the full force of Cyclone Jasper as it approaches the Australian mainland.
The storm, currently classified as a level 3 cyclone, is expected to intensify to level 4 overnight and potentially reach level 5 by Friday. Projections indicate that it will make landfall in northern Queensland, between Cooktown and Townsville, late Monday night or early Tuesday morning.
The cyclone is currently on track towards Cairns, prompting communities north of Mackay to reassess their cyclone preparedness plans.
The Queensland Fire and Emergency Service (QFES) has issued a warning that the impacts of the cyclone could extend further, with some models suggesting the system may reach down to Gladstone.
QFES emphasizes the annual impact of tropical cyclones on Queensland communities, bringing about dangerous winds, heavy rainfall, flash flooding, and storm surges. It is noted that the potential reach of these impacts extends beyond the location where the cyclone makes landfall.
The Bureau of Meteorology predicts that Cyclone Jasper, presently categorized as a level 3 storm, will escalate to a level 4 late on Thursday as it approaches the North Queensland coast, possibly reaching level 5 on Friday, marking the highest cyclone strength.
Recorded with sustained winds of 40km/h near the center and gusts up to 195km/h on Thursday morning, the cyclone is expected to weaken to a level 2 as it moves towards Australia. The Bureau of Meteorology describes its movement as ‘slow moving.’
Jasper is not only the first tropical cyclone of the season but is also considered the first to form off Australia in December during an El Niño event.
The Bureau of Meteorology notes the rarity of a December cyclone, especially during El Niño, and acknowledges that such occurrences are uncommon in December, let alone early December.
The Bureau of Meteorology will provide regular updates to keep communities informed as the situation evolves over the coming days. Residents in potentially affected areas are advised to start preparing for the cyclone as soon as the initial warnings are issued.
### How to Survive a Cyclone:
**Before the Cyclone:**
– Prepare an emergency kit containing water, non-perishable food, cooking equipment, self-powered items, a first-aid kit, essential medications, clothing, toiletries, important documents, cash, bedding, pet supplies, and extra batteries.
– Develop an emergency plan, including the location of the local shelter, evacuation routes, items to leave behind, and communication methods.
**Check Your Property:**
– Clear potential projectiles, secure outdoor items, and check windows and door seals.
**Day of the Cyclone:**
– Fill emergency containers with water, close windows, and tape plastic sheeting to avoid wind-driven rain.
– Ensure everyone, including pets, is inside, and double-check the emergency kit.
**During the Cyclone:**
– Adhere to local warnings, evacuate if required, and wear protective clothing.
– Turn off electricity, gas, and water at the main supply.
– Stay tuned to local information and stay inside until officials declare it safe.
**After the Cyclone:**
– Do not go outside until authorities deem it safe.
– Check in with family and friends, follow recommended routes if returning home from a shelter, and avoid driving through floodwaters.
– Inspect and photograph any property damage for insurance purposes.