Cyclone Ilsa Causes Significant Damage in Australia, Emergency Services Deployed to Assist with Clean-up and Recovery Efforts

Cyclone Ilsa, the most powerful tropical cyclone to hit Australia in eight years, has caused significant damage in the northwest of the country. The cyclone made landfall between De Grey and Pardoo Roadhouse as a Category 5 storm, with wind speeds reaching an apparent record of 289 kilometers (180 miles) per hour.

The Bureau of Meteorology reported that Cyclone Ilsa weakened to a Category 2 storm as it moved inland, bringing heavy rain and sustained winds of 120 kilometers per hour (74 miles per hour). Prior to landfall, the cyclone sped over Bedout Island, a tiny uninhabited island, where its sustained wind speeds reached 218 kph (135 mph) over a 10-minute period.

Fortunately, the cyclone skirted larger population centers and there have been no immediate reports of injuries. However, the cyclone has caused significant damage to infrastructure and property in the region.

The Australian government has deployed emergency services to the affected areas to help with the clean-up and recovery efforts. The Bureau of Meteorology is continuing to monitor the situation and has warned that the cyclone is still active and could cause further damage.