According to the latest storm news from the Australian Meteorological Agency, Typhoon Hayley made landfall in the area near Derby, northern Western Australia, on the evening of December 30, with sustained winds of about 100-120 km/h, gusts of wind possibly up to 140-165 km/h, accompanied by heavy rain and the risk of flash floods, power outages, and falling trees.
After entering the mainland, the storm is forecast to gradually weaken in the next 24 hours.
The warning zone stretches from north Broome Bay to Kuri Bay, including Dampier Peninsula, Derby, Beagle Bay and Cockatoo Island. Local authorities advise residents and tourists not to move during Typhoon Hayley's activity, and open evacuation points at Broome Entertainment and Sports Center.
Meanwhile, prolonged monsoon rain has caused widespread flooding in northern Queensland, with many places recording over 800 mm of rain in a few days. Dozens of roads were cut off, thousands of households lost power, especially in Mount Isa, Cairns and Townsville. Heavy rain due to Hurricane Hayley's impact is forecast to continue in the early days of the new year.
Recommendations for tourists before bad weather developments due to Typhoon Hayley
Avoid moving to or through northern Western Australia (Kimberley, Dampier Peninsula) and northern Queensland during this time.
Closely follow the announcements of the Australai Meteorological Agency (BoM) and Emergency WA/Queensland Disaster Dashboard.
Re-check flight schedules, ships, road tours, due to the risk of postponement, cancellation or road and sea bans.
Tourists staying in the affected area need to stay in safe shelters and comply with local authorities' instructions.
