Tropical cyclone Ita originally classed as a category 4 system cyclone has now been upgraded to a category 5 system. It is expected that the winds will reach speeds of up to 300 km/h and will land around the Cooktown region of Northern Queensland.
To put this in perspective it is expected that Ita has the potential to cause more destruction than Cyclone Larry which damaged approximately 9,000 homes in 2006.
Cooktown Mayor Speaks
Cooktown Mayor Peter Scott said there was “a real worry” about the damage it could cause.
“I’ve been here 20 years and always we get these cyclones flying past … but this one is coming straight for us and is going to cross the coast as a high level category 4 and perhaps category 5,” he said.
“People are starting to take it very seriously.”
Cr Scott said the town was prepared with plenty of fuel and food, and the local cyclone shelter would open on Thursday.
Advice to People in the Area
If you’re in the area please treat this very seriously.
The Queensland Fire and Emergency Service has issued the following advice to residents in the warning zone:
For Cooktown and local environs if your home was built before 1985 there is a high risk that it may not withstand Category 5 Tropical Cyclone Ita.
You should think seriously about relocating to another location. Seek shelter with family or friends and if you can’t do that go to your local cyclone shelter.
If your home was built after 1985 it should be able to withstand the cyclone and you should be able to take shelter there.
If you intend to shelter in your house choose the location likely to be the most cyclone resistant, e.g. the bathroom
Take the opportunity now to charge mobile phones and close off any apps or smartphones that you don’t need as they take up battery power.
Include batteries amongst the essential items in your emergency kit as well as sufficient drinking water and non-perishable food, medical supplies or medicines to cover for up to a week after the storm.
Take it Seriously
If you’re in the area working or travelling, take this threat very seriously, go speak to members of the local Fire and Emergency service and follow their advice. No Risks are being take, even Lizard Island Resort was evacuated on Wednesday as a precaution and will remain closed until Sunday/Monday.