Tropical downpours may trigger flooding in northern Australia

By Kristina Pydynowski, AccuWeather senior meteorologist

By Adam Douty, AccuWeather meteorologist

February 18,2017, 7:52:51AM,EST

 

 

A tropical low will threaten coastal communities around the Gulf of Carpentaria with flooding downpours through early this week.
The low is spinning along the coast, just inland from the southwestern coast of the Gulf of Carpentaria, and could develop into a minimal tropical cyclone late on Sunday or on Monday as the center of the low moves back over water.
Even if the low fails to reach tropical cyclone status, flooding rain will still threaten residents, motorists and property in the Katherine region of the Northern Territory and Northwest Queensland. This includes Borroloola, Nicholson and Carpentaria. Highway 1 that passes near these areas will be at risk for closures due to flooding.

"Rainfall over 150 mm (6 inches) is likely along coastal areas over the next few days with widespread rainfall of 50-100 mm (2-4 inches) farther inland," Nicholls said.
Motorists should prepare for possible road closures. Even if flooding does not ensue, any downpours will reduce visibility and heighten the risk of vehicles hydroplaning when traveling at highway speeds.
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Coastal communities will also face wind gusts to 65 km/h (40 mph) early next week as the low becomes better organized. Winds could cause sporadic power outages and will easily toss around loose lawn items. Surf will also become rough for small craft and dangerous for swimmers.
The greatest chance for locally stronger wind will be near the center of the low. This will be most likely in the Pellew Islands and the nearby Northern Territory coastline.
"We are projecting a moderate chance for development because the window for development will be small, mainly Sunday and Monday, and questions of how far offshore the low moves," Nicholls said.
The risk for power outages and minor damage will increase if the low strengthens into a tropical cyclone.