Tropical Cyclone Kirrily made a significant impact on Queensland, Australia, leaving tens of thousands without power. The category two cyclone hit the coast near the Great Barrier Reef, particularly affecting the tourist town of Townsville.
As part of the ongoing El Niño weather event, Australia is experiencing extreme weather phenomena including cyclones, wildfires, droughts, and heat waves. These conditions have heightened the vulnerability of the region to such natural disasters.
Queensland Premier Steven Miles reported that 64,000 people were without electricity on Friday following the cyclone's landfall on Thursday evening. Emma Oliveri, a spokesperson for Ergon Energy, noted that the majority of power outages occurred in Townsville and that restoration times were still uncertain.
Authorities are working tirelessly to restore power and ensure the safety of residents, while also preparing for the potential of additional extreme weather events as the El Niño effect continues.
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Thousands of Australians without power in tropical cyclone aftermath
cgtn.com