As Queensland recovers from the impact of Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, attention is turning to the possibility of another cyclone forming in Australia. While the immediate threat is not as pressing as it was with Alfred, there are several weather systems worth keeping an eye on.
Tropical low 25U: impacting the Cocos Islands
A tropical low, designated as 25U, is currently strengthening over the Indian Ocean and is expected to become a tropical cyclone near the Cocos Islands.
Just as a reminder, a tropical low is a low-pressure system that forms over warm tropical waters. These systems can bring severe thunderstorms and heavy rain, but they typically have lower wind speeds than cyclones. For a tropical low to become a cyclone, it needs to meet certain conditions, like having wind speeds of at least 63 km/h around its centre.
Thankfully, according to Senior Meteorologist Miriam Bradbury, this tropical low will not affect the Australian mainland.
“But it will bring strong winds and squally showers to the Cocos Islands,” per 9News.
It is anticipated to move south and weaken by late Thursday.
Tropical low 27U: off Western Australia
Another tropical low, 27U, is forming off the north-west Kimberley coast in Western Australia. Although it has a low chance of becoming a cyclone from Friday into the weekend, it’s expected to stay offshore and bring more rain to the Pilbara region.
The Bureau of Meteorology notes that while the chances are low, the system could still develop into a cyclone if conditions improve. Water temperatures above 31C in the area provide an environment for cyclone formation, as the threshold for that development is 26.5C. This warm water, combined with the influence of the monsoon trough, creates pretty favourable conditions for the system to strengthen.
The monsoon trough is an elongated belt of converging moist winds that often leads to the formation of tropical cyclones in the Australian region.
Heavy rain in far North Queensland
Meanwhile, it seems Queensland isn’t getting a break any time soon. Residents in Far North Queensland, particularly in Townsville, Ingham, and Ayr, are experiencing heavy rainfall with a risk of flash flooding. The Bureau of Meteorology warns of six-hourly rainfall totals reaching 120mm to 160mm, with isolated totals up to 240mm possible.
What to expect
While these systems aren’t an immediate threat, it’s important to stay alert. The Bureau of Meteorology is keeping a close eye on them, and any changes will be shared quickly. As the wet season continues, the likelihood of further cyclone activity remains. It’s essential for communities to stay informed and prepared.
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