What were the highest sustained winds of Tropical Cyclone Yasi at landfall?

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In summary, on February 2, 2011, a tropical cyclone named Yasi made landfall between Cairns and Townsville, Queensland, with sustained winds estimated at 155 mph, just below the threshold for Category 5 status. However, it weakened considerably upon landfall and was classified as a Category 3-2 storm. The storm was not as devastating as predicted, but the floods that occurred a week or two prior were described as "biblical" and caused significant damage. Despite winds reaching 186 mph, there were no reported fatalities, showcasing the resilience and preparedness of the Australian people. The conversation also mentions other notable hurricanes, such as Katrina and Camille, with higher sustained wind speeds and devastating effects.
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Astronuc
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  • #2
I believe it made it to Category 5.

http://www.smh.com.au/environment/weather/second-surge-threatens-north-queensland-20110201-1acgp.html"
 
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  • #3
Astronuc said:
http://www.accuweather.com/blogs/news/story/45263/devastating-tc-yasi-crashing-a-1.asp

Landfall between Cairns and Townsville (actually between Innisfail and Cardwell), Queensland, on Feb. 2, 2011

http://www.bom.gov.au/products/IDQ65002.shtml

Thankfully, it abated considerably upon landfall. Down to a Cat 3 - 2. Still heading inland, toward Broken Hill, expected there as a Cat 1. It was bad, but could have been much worse.

Now the floods we had a week or two ago, they were something else. I heard a weatherman describe them as going to be of 'biblical proprtions' before they occurred, and I though "hmmm, that's over the top a bit". It wasn't.
 
  • #4
With winds recorded at 186 mph, I'm amazed that there were no reported fatalities! Gotta hand it to those Aussies for having enough sense to come in out of the rain.
 
  • #5
mugaliens said:
With winds recorded at 186 mph, I'm amazed that there were no reported fatalities! Gotta hand it to those Aussies for having enough sense to come in out of the rain.

Yup. Compare and contrast with Katrina.
 
  • #6

FAQ: What were the highest sustained winds of Tropical Cyclone Yasi at landfall?

What is Tropical Cycle Yasi - Cat 4?

Tropical Cycle Yasi - Cat 4 is a severe tropical cyclone that formed in the Coral Sea in February 2011. It was classified as a Category 4 cyclone, with wind speeds reaching up to 250 km/h.

Where did Tropical Cycle Yasi - Cat 4 hit?

Tropical Cycle Yasi - Cat 4 made landfall in northern Queensland, Australia, near the town of Mission Beach. It then continued to move inland and caused widespread damage to the surrounding areas.

What were the impacts of Tropical Cycle Yasi - Cat 4?

Tropical Cycle Yasi - Cat 4 caused significant damage to infrastructure, homes, and agriculture in the areas it hit. It also resulted in power outages, flooding, and several fatalities.

How did scientists predict and track Tropical Cycle Yasi - Cat 4?

Scientists used a combination of satellite imagery, weather models, and on-the-ground observations to track the formation and movement of Tropical Cycle Yasi - Cat 4. This allowed for early warnings and preparations to be made in the affected areas.

How does Tropical Cycle Yasi - Cat 4 compare to other tropical cyclones?

Tropical Cycle Yasi - Cat 4 was one of the most powerful tropical cyclones to hit Australia in recent history. It was comparable in strength to Cyclone Larry in 2006 and Cyclone Tracy in 1974, but it caused less damage due to better preparedness and evacuation efforts.

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