While North Queensland residents were told to stay inside during tropical Cyclone Jasper, a string of Cairns businesses were hit by looters mid-storm.
Looters Strike Amid Chaos: Cyclone Jasper’s Devastation
Amid the chaos caused by Cyclone Jasper in Far North Queensland, looters have taken advantage of the devastation, targeting residents’ homes and businesses. This disturbing and unacceptable trend has left the community in distress and fear.
Queensland’s Deputy Premier has strongly condemned these acts of looting, while the Queensland Police Commissioner has issued a warning that the culprits will be identified and apprehended through CCTV surveillance. The looters’ exploitation of vulnerable individuals during this crisis is widely condemned, as the community struggles to recover from the cyclone’s impact.
As authorities work tirelessly to restore power, assess and repair damage, and provide assistance to affected individuals and families, the safety and security of the community remain a top priority amidst the ongoing threat of flash flooding and dangerous conditions.
Key Takeaways
- Residents’ homes and businesses were looted during Cyclone Jasper
- Queensland’s Deputy Premier condemned the looters, labeling their actions as disturbing
- Queensland Police Commissioner warned looters about CCTV surveillance and stated that they will be found and dealt with
- Taking advantage of vulnerable people during a crisis is strongly condemned
Impact of Cyclone Jasper
Cyclone Jasper caused significant devastation in the affected areas. With winds reaching about 100km/h, the Category 2 storm uprooted trees and powerlines, leaving more than 35,000 houses without electricity. The town of Mossman in Douglas Shire experienced dangerous flooding, prompting evacuation orders in parts of Cairns.
However, amidst the chaos, reports of looting emerged. Residents’ homes and businesses were targeted, leading Queensland’s Deputy Premier to label the looters as disturbing. The Queensland Police Commissioner warned the looters that they’d be dealt with and found, emphasizing the presence of CCTV surveillance. Taking advantage of vulnerable people during a crisis was strongly condemned.
In addition to the wind and flooding, the cyclone brought heavy rainfall, with Yandill receiving 624mm, the second-highest daily amount recorded in Australia. Flash flooding was expected to continue, and emergency alerts were issued in various areas, advising residents to move to higher ground and avoid floodwater.
Ergon Energy crews were expected to assess and repair the damage to powerlines once conditions improved, and residents were urged to stay clear of fallen powerlines. Assistance payments were made available for affected individuals and families, while Cairns residents were encouraged to conserve drinking water. Assessments of water intake infrastructure were underway, but it was confirmed that the water from reservoirs was safe to drink without the need to boil. Caution was advised, as conditions were changing quickly and deemed dangerous.
Reported Looting During the Cyclone
Residents and businesses fell victim to looting during the destructive chaos brought about by Cyclone Jasper. As the storm wreaked havoc in Far North Queensland, reports emerged of opportunistic individuals taking advantage of the vulnerable situation.
Queensland’s Deputy Premier expressed his concern, labeling the looters as disturbing. The Queensland Police Commissioner issued a warning to potential looters, reminding them of the presence of CCTV surveillance. The authorities made it clear that anyone caught looting would be dealt with and found.
The act of plundering homes and businesses during a crisis was strongly condemned, as it showed a complete disregard for the well-being of the affected community. As residents and emergency services focused on recovery efforts, efforts to identify and apprehend the looters continued.
Rainfall and Flooding in Far North Queensland
The torrential rainfall and subsequent flooding wreaked havoc in Far North Queensland during Cyclone Jasper’s devastation. In just 24 hours, more than half a meter of rain fell in the region, causing flash flooding and posing a significant threat to the affected communities.
Yandill received a staggering 624mm of rain, marking the second-highest daily amount recorded in Australia. Emergency alerts were issued in Kuranda, Myola, Koah, and Speewah, urging residents to move to higher ground and avoid floodwater.
The situation is expected to persist, with further flash flooding anticipated. As a result, power outages have affected over 35,500 homes, and Ergon Energy crews are prepared to assess and repair the damage once conditions improve. Residents are advised to exercise caution and stay away from fallen powerlines.
Power Outages and Safety Measures
Power outages have affected thousands of homes in Far North Queensland during the aftermath of Cyclone Jasper. More than 35,000 houses are currently without power, with an additional 40,000 homes expected to lose electricity. The storm, categorized as a Category 2 with winds of about 100km/h, caused extensive damage to powerlines and infrastructure. Ergon Energy crews will assess and repair the damage once conditions improve.
Residents are urged to stay clear of fallen powerlines for their safety. In light of these power outages, safety measures have been put in place. Assistance payments are being provided to affected individuals and families, while residents in Cairns are encouraged to conserve drinking water. Assessments of water intake infrastructure are underway, and residents have been assured that water from reservoirs is safe to drink without the need for boiling. However, caution is advised as conditions are changing quickly and can be dangerous.
Assistance for Affected Individuals and Families
Affected individuals and families are receiving assistance in the aftermath of Cyclone Jasper’s devastation. The government has taken swift action to provide support and aid to those affected by the cyclone.
Assistance payments are being made available for individuals and families who’ve suffered losses or damages to their homes and properties. This financial assistance aims to help them recover and rebuild their lives.
In addition, measures are being taken to ensure the safety and well-being of the affected communities. Assessments of water intake infrastructure are underway to ensure the safety of drinking water, while residents are encouraged to conserve water. Caution is advised as conditions continue to change rapidly and pose potential dangers.
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