Townsville residents are being reminded to finalise their cyclone preparations with Tropical Cyclone Kimi expected to reach Category 2 north of Townsville later today. 

Townsville Mayor Jenny Hill said that while TC Kimi was still forecast to track north of Townsville residents should have their disaster preparations in place. 

“At the moment, the Bureau of Meteorology’s tracking places Tropical Cyclone Kimi making landfall between Innisfail and Lucinda, but there is still considerable uncertainty and Townsville is expected to experience rainfall and strong winds,” Cr Hill said.

“While this rain is typical for our wet season, we’re still urging residents to be prepared and have their cyclone kit ready.

“This includes having fresh water and food available for up to three days and having spare batteries available. Residents should also secure loose objects in their yard to prevent them becoming projectile.”

Cr Hill said Council’s Emergency Response Group (ERG) had met and was checking preparedness.

“Council staff are preparing sandbagging locations across the city ahead of the wet weather, residents can check our disaster dashboard to find their closest sandbagging location,” she said. 

“The decision has also been made to postpone HALO tonight and tomorrow night because there is uncertainty about the weather, and we want to keep all our residents and staff safe.

“This afternoon the Townsville Local Disaster Management Group is meeting, and the intention is that I will ask our members to move the LDMG to stand up.

“In the meantime, residents should keep an eye on the Disaster Dashboard for updates and heed any weather advice and warnings from BOM.”

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