The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a warning regarding a tropical low, designated “22U,” likely to develop into a cyclone off the Queensland coast by Sunday. Forecasts indicate that this system will continue to grow in the northern Coral Sea, moving either east or south-east, safely distanced from the coast. Although there is currently a moderate chance of it becoming a cyclone on Saturday, this likelihood is expected to escalate by Sunday.
Meanwhile, another tropical low named “21U” is forming north-west of the Kimberley region in Western Australia, but it too is projected to remain offshore. Last week, Tropical Cyclone Zelia affected Western Australia, and even if these cyclones do not make landfall in Queensland, they could still lead to heavy rain in areas already dealing with flooding. Rain is anticipated for Cairns, Mackay, and Rockhampton, with the possibility of thunderstorms impacting northern and central Queensland today.
Additionally, in a move to prevent confusion with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, the next cyclone that develops will be named “Alfred” instead of “Anthony.”