As Tropical Cyclone Megan weakens after making landfall, the Northern Territory braces for the aftermath, focusing on recovery efforts for the impacted communities.
Tropical Cyclone Megan recently struck the Northern Territory of Australia, causing significant concern as it made landfall southeast of Port McArthur with winds exceeding 200km/h. The cyclone, which was initially a category 3 storm, weakened to a category 1 upon crossing the coast. Despite efforts to evacuate residents ahead of the storm, around 700 people were trapped in the remote fishing town of Borroloola due to severe weather conditions that prevented aircraft from landing.
The Bureau of Meteorology had issued warnings about the cyclone’s potential path inland towards the Kimberley region before it was expected to diminish to a tropical low. Residents were advised to take refuge in safe shelters due to the threats of destructive winds, floods, and storm tides, particularly in coastal areas. Communities in the Carpentaria and Barkly regions were alerted about the possibility of significant damage, including uprooted trees and structural harm, especially as flood warnings were proclaimed with heavy rainfall forecasted inland.
With residents in Borroloola bracing for anticipated rainfall and potential flooding from the McArthur River, the Australian Defence Force was prepared to provide post-cyclone assistance. However, frustrations arose from the locals and members of the community, such as Garawa Elder Keith Rory and MLA Steve Edgington, who voiced their dissatisfaction with the delayed evacuation efforts.
As Tropical Cyclone Megan has now been downgraded to a tropical low, the Northern Territory is focusing on recovery, with defense force personnel on standby and continued monitoring by the Bureau of Meteorology. The regions affected look forward to supporting those impacted by the cyclone’s damages, ensuring the community’s safety and recovery in the aftermath.
