Overview
- The Bureau of Meteorology confirmed the season’s first cyclone as a Category 1 system in the western Arafura Sea, moving east-northeast with sustained winds near 75 km/h and gusts to 100 km/h about 315 km northeast of Darwin early today.
- Forecasters expect Fina to strengthen to Category 2 by Thursday, supported by very warm 30–31°C sea surface temperatures.
- Model guidance indicates a south then southwest turn from Thursday, bringing a potential approach to the Tiwi Islands and the Darwin area from Friday into the weekend.
- The Bureau warns of heavy rain, damaging winds and possible storm surge, and NT Emergency Service advises 72‑hour kits and shelter plans, with a cyclone watch expected Wednesday.
- Meteorologists highlight the rarity of a November cyclone in the Australian region—the first in about 12 years—while noting uncertainty increases beyond 48–72 hours for the exact track and peak intensity.