Severe cyclone likely to hit Qld this season, weather bureau warns

The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a warning that Queensland is likely to face at least one severe cyclone during the upcoming season. The state may also encounter heatwaves and below-average rainfall. Warmer sea temperatures in the Coral Sea are expected to fuel the development of these powerful storms, each of which must be categorized as at least a category 3 cyclone.

On average, two such systems typically make landfall in Queensland each season. However, last year saw two category five cyclones, the most severe type, form in the Coral Sea. Forecaster Laura Boekel noted there is a higher likelihood of these intense cyclones making landfall this season due to the forecasted warmer sea surface temperatures.

Additionally, the bureau predicts warmer-than-average temperatures and below-average rainfall across much of the state until December, further increasing the risk of dangerous heatwaves. Dry conditions have already led to a 20% increase in bushfire activity compared to this time last year, with over 2,000 emergency responses to fires since September.

With four years of abundant rainfall leading to a significant amount of fuel, conditions are expected to worsen until heavy rains arrive later in the year. Boekel emphasized the need for residents to remain vigilant about the rapidly evolving situation and take appropriate precautions.