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{{Use dmy dates|date=September 2011}}
{{Infobox Hurricane
| Name=Severe Tropical Cyclone Yasi
| Type=tropical cyclone
| Year=2011
| Basin=Aus
| Image location=Cyclone Yasi 2 February 2011 approaching Queensland.jpg
| Image name=Satellite image of Cyclone Yasi near peak intensity on 2 February 2011
| Formed=26 January 2011
| Dissipated=6 February 2011
| Remnant low=3 February
| 10-min winds=110
| 1-min winds=135
| Gusts=155
| Pressure=929
| Damages=$3.6 billion (2011 USD)
| Fatalities=1 indirect
| Areas=[[Tuvalu]], [[Fiji]], [[Solomon Islands]], [[Vanuatu]], [[Papua New Guinea]], [[Australia]]
| Hurricane season=[[2010–11 South Pacific cyclone season|2010–11 South Pacific]] and [[2010–11 Australian region cyclone season|Australian region cyclone season]]s
}}

'''Severe Tropical Cyclone Yasi''' {{IPAc-en|ˈ|j|ɑː|s|iː}} was a powerful and destructive [[tropical cyclone]] that made landfall in northern [[Queensland]], [[Australia]], causing major damage to the affected areas. Originating as a tropical low near Fiji on 26 January, the system intensified to [[Tropical cyclone scales|tropical cyclone status]] during the evening of 30 January 2011. Yasi underwent rapid deepening over the next 24 hours, with the storm classified as a Category 3 cyclone at about 5 PM [[Time in Australia|AEST]] (07:00 [[Coordinated Universal Time|UTC]]) on 31 January 2011.<ref name="qpmsc">{{Cite news | url=http://news.smh.com.au/breaking-news-national/qld-prepares-for-most-savage-cyclone-20110131-1aa14.html | title=Qld prepares for 'most savage' cyclone | accessdate=1 February 2011 | date=31 January 2011 | newspaper=[[The Sydney Morning Herald]] | publisher=[[Fairfax Media]] | agency=[[Australian Associated Press]] }}</ref> Late on 1 February, the cyclone strengthened to a Category 4 system; then, early on 2 February, the cyclone intensified into a Category 5 Severe Tropical Cyclone.<ref name="1febadvice">{{cite web | url=http://www.bom.gov.au/cgi-bin/wrap_fwo.pl?IDQP0005.txt | title=Tropical Cyclone Advice No. 9 | accessdate=1 February 2011 | date=1 February 2011 | work=[[Bureau of Meteorology]] | publisher=[[Australian Government]] }}</ref> The system had a well-defined [[Eye (cyclone)|eye]] and continued to track west-southwestward, maintaining a central pressure of 930 hPa (27 inHg) and a [[Dvorak intensity]] of T6.5 into the evening.<ref name="2febadvice">{{cite web |url=http://www.bom.gov.au/cgi-bin/wrap_fwo.pl?IDQP0005.txt |title=Tropical Cyclone Advice Number 21 |accessdate=2 February 2011 |date=2 February 2011 |work=Bureau of Meteorology | publisher=Australian Government}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.bom.gov.au/cgi-bin/wrap_fwo.pl?IDQ20018.txt|title=Tropical Cyclone Technical Bulletin |accessdate=2 February 2011 |date=2 February 2011 |work=Bureau of Meteorology | publisher=Australian Government}}</ref>

At about 12:00 AM AEST (14:00 UTC) on February 3, Yasi crossed the Australian coastline as a severe Category 5 cyclone near [[Mission Beach, Queensland|Mission Beach]], with estimated maximum 3-second gusts of 285&nbsp;km/h spanning an area from Ingham to Cairns.<ref name="2feb_threatmap_yasi">{{cite web |url=http://www.bom.gov.au/products/IDQ65002.shtml |title=TROPICAL CYCLONE Threat Map |accessdate=2 February 2011 |date=2 February 2011 |work=Bureau of Meteorology | publisher=Australian Government}}</ref> A record low pressure of 929 hPa (27.43 inHg) was measured as the eye passed over [[Tully, Queensland|Tully]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.bom.gov.au/cyclone/history/yasi.shtml|title=Severe Tropical Cyclone Yasi|last=|first=|date=February 2011|website=Bureau of Meteorology|publisher=Australian Government|access-date=8 November 2016}}</ref> Due to the size of the system and its strong core, Yasi maintained cyclonic intensity farther inland than normal, finally dissipating into a tropical low near [[Mount Isa]], at 10 PM on February 3, 2011, 22 hours after the storm first crossed the coast. The storm caused an estimated AU$3.5 billion (US $3.6 billion) in damage, making it the costliest tropical cyclone to hit Australia on record (not accounting for inflation; otherwise, [[Cyclone Tracy]] was costlier). Yasi was also indirectly responsible for the death of a 23-year-old man, who died from suffocation by generator exhaust fumes.<ref>{{cite web|publisher=Reuters|date=3 February 2011|accessdate=5 November 2011|title=Cyclone Yasi to cost insurers A$3.5 billion - forecaster |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/2011/02/03/insured-losses-yasi-idUSLDE7121NR20110203}}</ref><ref name="SMH death">{{cite news|title=Man in cyclone zone suffocates|url=http://www.smh.com.au/environment/weather/man-in-cyclone-zone-suffocates-20110204-1agbe.html|accessdate=6 February 2011|newspaper=Sydney Morning Herald|date=4 February 2011}}</ref>

==Meteorological history==
{{expand section|date=March 2016}}
{{storm path|Yasi 2011 track.png}}
Tropical Disturbance 09F was first identified on 26&nbsp;January 2011 by the [[Fiji Meteorological Service]] (FMS), while it was located {{convert|330|km|mi|round=5|abbr=on}} to the south-southwest of [[Tuvalu]]. Situated over a region of high [[sea surface temperature]]s and low to moderate [[wind shear]], gradual intensification was expected as the system moved southwestwards.<ref>{{cite web|publisher=Fiji Meteorological Service |date=26 January 2011 |accessdate=1 February 2011 |title=Tropical Disturbance Summary |url=http://www.met.gov.fj/aifs_prods/20036.txt |archiveurl=https://www.webcitation.org/5w1yluJCb?url=http://www.met.gov.fj/aifs_prods/20036.txt |archivedate=26 January 2011 |deadurl=yes |df=dmy }}</ref> Little development took place over the following two days,<ref>{{cite web|publisher=Fiji Meteorological Service |date=27 January 2011 |accessdate=1 February 2011 |title=Tropical Disturbance Summary |url=http://www.met.gov.fj/aifs_prods/20036.txt |archiveurl=https://www.webcitation.org/5w2Rpf70u?url=http://www.met.gov.fj/aifs_prods/20036.txt |archivedate=27 January 2011 |deadurl=yes |df=dmy }}</ref> though the disturbance was classified as a tropical depression on 27&nbsp;January.<ref>{{cite web|publisher=Fiji Meteorological Service |date=27 January 2011 |accessdate=1 February 2011 |title=Tropical Disturbance Summary |url=http://gwydir.demon.co.uk/advisories/WWPS21_201101270600.htm |archiveurl=https://www.webcitation.org/5w34xjC79?url=http://gwydir.demon.co.uk/advisories/WWPS21_201101270600.htm |archivedate=27 January 2011 |deadurl=yes |df=dmy }}</ref> By 28&nbsp;January, the depression was characterised as a poorly developed low with a broad area of rotating, flaring [[Atmospheric convection|convection]].<ref>{{cite web|author=Joint Typhoon Warning Centre |publisher=United States Navy |date=28 January 2011 |accessdate=1 February 2011 |title=Significant Tropical Weather Advisory for the Western and South Pacific Oceans |url=http://weather.noaa.gov/pub/data/raw/ab/abpw10.pgtw..txt |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://www.webcitation.org/5w4Os8ssa?url=http://weather.noaa.gov/pub/data/raw/ab/abpw10.pgtw..txt |archivedate=28 January 2011 |df=dmy }}</ref> Considerable development took place the following day, prompting the [[Joint Typhoon Warning Center]] (JTWC) to issue a [[Tropical Cyclone Formation Alert]]. The storm's [[Low pressure area|low-level circulation centre]] became increasingly defined and [[Rainband|convective banding features]] were apparent along the northern periphery of the depression.<ref>{{cite web|author=Joint Typhoon Warning Centre |publisher=United States Navy |date=29 January 2011 |accessdate=1 February 2011 |title=Tropical Cyclone Formation Alert |url=http://weather.noaa.gov/pub/data/raw/wt/wtps21.pgtw..txt |archiveurl=https://www.webcitation.org/5w6XgjQwx?url=http://weather.noaa.gov/pub/data/raw/wt/wtps21.pgtw..txt |archivedate=29 January 2011 |deadurl=yes |df=dmy }}</ref>

[[Rapid deepening|Rapid development]] took place throughout 30&nbsp;January, resulting in the [[JTWC]] upgrading the system to a tropical storm after data from an [[Scatterometer|ASCAT]] image depicted winds near gale-force around the storm's centre.<ref>{{cite web|author=Joint Typhoon Warning Center |publisher=United States Navy |date=30 January 2011 |accessdate=8 October 2017 |title=Tropical Storm 11P Advisory 001 |url=http://weather.noaa.gov/pub/data/raw/wt/wtps31.pgtw..txt |archiveurl=https://www.webcitation.org/5w7CHn4z5?url=http://weather.noaa.gov/pub/data/raw/wt/wtps31.pgtw..txt |archivedate=30 January 2011 |deadurl=yes |df=dmy }}</ref> Shortly thereafter, the FMS also upgraded the storm, classifying it as Tropical Cyclone Yasi.<ref name="FMS1">{{cite web|publisher=Fiji Meteorological Service |date=30 January 2011 |accessdate=1 February 2011 |title=Tropical Disturbance Advisory Number A4 |url=http://gwydir.demon.co.uk/advisories/WTPS11_201101300600.htm |archiveurl=https://www.webcitation.org/5w7VlESsL?url=http://gwydir.demon.co.uk/advisories/WTPS11_201101300600.htm |archivedate=30 January 2011 |deadurl=yes |df=dmy }}</ref> Upon being classified a tropical cyclone, Yasi was located about 370&nbsp;km (230&nbsp;mi) northeast of [[Vanuatu]].<ref name="FMS1"/> Situated along the northern edge of a strong [[subtropical cyclone|subtropical]] [[Ridge (meteorology)|ridge]], the storm tracked in a general westward direction, taking it through the northern islands of the country.<ref>{{cite web|author=Joint Typhoon Warning Center |publisher=United States Navy |date=30 January 2011 |accessdate=1 February 2011 |title=Tropical Storm 11P Advisory 002 |url=http://weather.noaa.gov/pub/data/raw/wt/wtps31.pgtw..txt |archiveurl=https://www.webcitation.org/5w7mQFbPI?url=http://weather.noaa.gov/pub/data/raw/wt/wtps31.pgtw..txt |archivedate=30 January 2011 |deadurl=yes |df=dmy }}</ref> Continuing to rapidly intensify, Yasi attained severe tropical cyclone intensity with ten-minute sustained winds of at least 120&nbsp;km/h (75&nbsp;mph) on 31&nbsp;January, as the primary convective band wrapped around the storm's centre.<ref>{{cite web|publisher=Fiji Meteorological Service |date=31 January 2011 |accessdate=1 February 2011 |title=Tropical Disturbance Advisory Number A7 |url=http://weather.noaa.gov/pub/data/raw/wt/wtps11.nffn..txt |archiveurl=https://www.webcitation.org/5w8AmvuEG?url=http://weather.noaa.gov/pub/data/raw/wt/wtps11.nffn..txt |archivedate=30 January 2011 |deadurl=yes |df=dmy }}</ref> Later that day, the storm crossed [[160th meridian east|160°E]], prompting the final advisory from the FMS and the first advisory from the [[Bureau of Meteorology (Australia)|Australian Bureau of Meteorology]], as the system crossed into the Australian cyclone basin.<ref>{{cite web|publisher=Fiji Meteorological Service |date=31 January 2011 |accessdate=1 February 2011 |title=Hurricane Warning 092 |url=http://weather.noaa.gov/pub/data/raw/wh/whps01.nffn..txt |archiveurl=https://www.webcitation.org/5w9GqVgDm?url=http://weather.noaa.gov/pub/data/raw/wh/whps01.nffn..txt |archivedate=31 January 2011 |deadurl=yes |df=dmy }}</ref>

==Preparations, impact and aftermath==
[[File:Yasi feb 1 2011 0000Z.jpg|thumb|Satellite image of Cyclone Yasi intensifying on 1&nbsp;February]]
Severe Tropical Cyclone Yasi directly impacted the Solomon Islands, Vanuatu and parts of Australia, while parts of Fiji and Papua New Guniea were indirectly impacted. As a result of the system's impacts, the name Yasi was subsequently retired from the list of South Pacific tropical cyclone names and replaced with Yvone.{{RA V Tropical cyclone operational plan}}

===Fiji, Vanuatu, Papua New Guniea and the Solomon Islands===
Between January 23 - 30, strong winds and swells were observed in Tuvalu, in association with the development and passage of Tropical Cyclone’s Wilma and Yasi.<ref name="SWFDDP">{{cite report|publisher=World Meteorological Organization |title=Severe Weather Forecasting and Disaster Risk Reduction Full Demonstration Project (SWFDDP) Region Sub Project RA V Progress Report Number 1: For the period 1 October 2010&nbsp;– 28 February 2011|url=http://www.wmo.int/pages/prog/www/CBS-Reports/documents/PR1-11_RAV_SWFDDP_FullDemo_1st.pdf |accessdate=18 January 2018 |archivedate=18 January 2018|date=17 May 2011|archiveurl=https://www.webcitation.org/6LvBfCdtP?url=http://www.wmo.int/pages/prog/www/CBS-Reports/documents/PR7-13-RAV-SWFDDP-FullDemo_7th.pdf |deadurl=no |df= }}</ref><ref name="Vulnerability">{{cite report|title=Vulnerability profile of Tuvalu|archiveurl=https://www.webcitation.org/6wYOoEJW6|archivedate=8 July 2012|date=March 2012|accessdate=17 January 2018|publisher=United Nations Conference on Trade and Development|url=https://www.un.org/development/desa/dpad/wp-content/uploads/sites/45/vulnerability_profile_tuvalu_2012.pdf|format=PDF}}</ref> These strong winds delayed shipping schedules and affected students studying in Vaitupu and Fiji, while outer islands ran out of fresh supplies as a result of rough seas.<ref name="Vulnerability"/> During 28 - 30 January, Yasi's precursor tropical depression caused rain and strong winds over the Fijian islands off [[Rotuma]], [[Vanua Levu]], [[Taveuni]] and the northern [[Yasawa Islands]].<ref name="2011 ACS">{{cite report|author=Climate Services Division|title=Fiji Annual Climate Summary: 2011|archiveurl=https://www.webcitation.org/68zUpMfhE|archivedate=8 July 2012|date=19 June 2012|accessdate=17 January 2018|publisher=Fiji Meteorological Service|url=http://www.met.gov.fj/Summary2.pdf|format=PDF}}</ref>

During January 30, the system subsequently became the second of three systems to directly impact Vanuatu within two months. Tropical Cyclone Yasi moved across Vanuatu's northern [[Torba Province]], with winds reaching up to 95&nbsp;km/h (60&nbsp;mph).<ref name=rnzi>{{cite news|first=|last=|title=Cyclone Yasi moves towards Australia |url=http://www.rnzi.com/pages/news.php?op=read&id=58510 |work=[[Radio New Zealand International]] |publisher= |date=2011-01-31 |accessdate=2011-02-03}}</ref> Vanuatuan officials reported difficulties making contact with the [[Torba Province]], but it was believed that the northern area escaped major damage.<ref name=rnzi2>{{cite news|first=|last=|title=Solomon Islands and Vanuatu appear to have avoided the worst of Cyclone Yasi |url=http://www.rnzi.com/pages/news.php?op=read&id=58539|work=[[Radio New Zealand International]] |publisher= |date=2011-02-02 |accessdate=2011-02-03}}</ref>

Though the storm was situated several hundred kilometres southeast of [[Papua New Guinea]], the outer edges of the large system brought strong winds, high [[sea]]s and heavy [[rain]] to the country. In [[Milne Bay Province]], local officials advised residents living along the coast to move to higher grounds.<ref>{{cite web|author=Staff writer |work=[[Radio Australia]] |publisher=Australian Broadcasting Corporation |date=31 January 2011 |accessdate=1 February 2011 |title=PNG, Solomons alert for cyclone bhYasi |url=http://www.radioaustralianews.net.au/stories/201102/3127065.htm?desktop |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20110205025943/http://www.radioaustralianews.net.au/stories/201102/3127065.htm?desktop |archivedate=5 February 2011 |deadurl=yes |df=dmy }}</ref>

===Willis Island===
As Yasi moved into the Australian region meteorological data from the weather station on [[Willis Island (Coral Sea)|Willis Island]] was used to help monitor the system. Ahead of the system impacting the island, staff battened down the buildings and were evacuated off the island by a helicopter during 1 February.<ref>http://www.bom.gov.au/inside/eiab/reports/ar10-11/doc/Bureau_of_Meteorology_Annual_Report_2011.pdf</ref><ref name="WillisIsland1">{{cite news|publisher=Australian Broadcasting Corporation|date=2 February 2011|accessdate=18 January 2018|title=Monster cyclone knocks out weather radar|url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2011/02/02/3127757.htm|archiveurl=https://www.webcitation.org/6wYEjq7IT|archivedate=18 January 2018}}</ref> Yasi subsequently passed directly over the weather station during 2 January, where wind gusts of 185&nbsp;km/h (115&nbsp;mph) and a minimum pressure of {{convert|937.9|hPa|inHg|abbr=on}} were recorded, before the meteorological equipment and communications failed.<ref name="WillisIsland1"/> After the system passed over the island, it became clear that the strong winds and storm surge had damaged the radar, key observing systems as well as communications, operational and life support infrastructure. It was also noted that the system had altered the shape of the island and cleared most of its vegetation. Most of the automated surface observing systems and communications were subsequently restored and became operational, fifteen days after Yasi had passed over the island. However, the radar and life-supporting systems took a bit longer to restore and were subsequently completed by the end of November, before staff returned to the island during December 2011.<ref name="BOM20111212">{{Cite press-release|url=http://www.bom.gov.au/announcements/media_releases/qld/20111212.shtml|title=Back to business for Willis Island weather station|deadurl=no|archiveurl=https://www.webcitation.org/6wYGb5xG8|archivedate=18 January 2018|publisher=Australian Bureau of Meteorology|date=12 December 2011}}</ref>

===Australia===
By the time Yasi crossed into Australian basin, preparations for the [[storm]] were under way. Media outlets referred to the storm as "what could be the state's worst cyclone in history".<ref>{{cite web|publisher=[[News Limited]] | work = [[The Daily Telegraph (Sydney)|The Daily Telegraph]]|date=1 February 2011|accessdate=1 February 2011|title='Potentially very deadly event' as Cyclone Yasi bears down on Queensland |url=http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/national/north-queensland-braces-for-cyclone-anthony-as-cyclone-yasi-brews-behind-it/story-e6freuzr-1225997788088 | author=Stolz, Greg | author2=Williams, Brian | author3=Michael, Peter}}</ref>

Because of its great size, many feared that the tropical cyclone could cause damage more severe than [[Cyclone Larry]] in 2006 or [[Cyclone Tracy]], which severely damaged [[Darwin, Northern Territory|Darwin]] in 1974.<ref>{{cite web|first=Bonnie |last=Malkin |publisher=[[Telegraph Media Group Limited]] |work=[[The Daily Telegraph]] |date=31 January 2011 |accessdate=31 January 2011 |title=Still reeling from flooding, Queensland braces for worst ever storm |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/australiaandthepacific/australia/8292796/Still-reeling-from-flooding-Queensland-braces-for-worst-ever-storm.html |archiveurl=https://www.webcitation.org/5w9aa0CNb?url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/australiaandthepacific/australia/8292796/Still-reeling-from-flooding-Queensland-braces-for-worst-ever-storm.html |archivedate=31 January 2011 |deadurl=yes |df=dmy }}</ref> Thousands of residents in the path of the storm were urged to evacuate by Queensland Premier [[Anna Bligh]].<ref>{{cite web|first=Jaime |last=Newborn |work=[[Daily Mercury]] |publisher= |date=31 January 2011 |accessdate=31 January 2011 |title=Premier: Get out before Yasi hits |url=http://www.dailymercury.com.au/story/2011/02/01/blight-cyclone-yasi/ |archiveurl=https://www.webcitation.org/5w9b3gVh1?url=http://www.dailymercury.com.au/story/2011/02/01/blight-cyclone-yasi/ |archivedate=31 January 2011 |deadurl=yes |df=dmy }}</ref> Thirty thousand people were evacuated from [[Cairns]], including all patients from Cairns Base Hospital and Cairns Private Hospital who were airlifted by the [[Royal Australian Air Force]] and other agencies (such as the [[Royal Flying Doctor Service]]) to [[Brisbane]].<ref name="CM20110202">{{cite news|url=http://www.couriermail.com.au/news/queensland-facing-a-deadly-event-with-cyclone-yasi-anna-bligh/story-e6freon6-1225997904763|title=30,000 evacuated from Cairns as city braces for a pounding from Cyclone Yasi|author1=Madigan, Michael |author2=Munro O'Brien, Jodie|publisher=News Limited |work=The Courier-Mail|date=2 February 2011 | accessdate=2 February 2011}}</ref> The Queensland state emergency coordinator warned residents that they would be on their own for up to 24 hours, as the conditions would be too dangerous for emergency responders.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://abcasiapacificnews.com/stories/201102/3128232.htm|title=Queenslanders told to stay put as Yasi closes in|work=ABC Asia Pacific News|publisher=[[Australian Broadcasting Corporation]]|date=2 February 2011|accessdate=2 February 2011}}</ref>

Waves as high as 12&nbsp;m (39.37&nbsp;ft) were predicted to hit the north Queensland coast as the storm surge caused by Cyclone Yasi combined with a high tide of up to 7&nbsp;m 23 ft) above average.<ref name="CM20110202"/><ref>{{cite web|publisher=Fairfax Media|work=[[Brisbane Times]]|author=Nancarrow, Dan |date=2 February 2011|accessdate=2 February 2011|title=Waves 12m high to lash coast| url =http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/environment/weather/waves-12m-high-to-lash-coast-20110202-1ad82.html}}</ref>

In [[Mission Beach, Queensland|Mission Beach]] near where Cyclone Yasi made landfall, wind gusts were estimated to have reached {{convert|290|km/h|mph|abbr=on}}, leaving behind much damage.<ref name="SMH1"/> A [[storm surge]] estimated to have reached {{convert|7|m|ft|abbr=on}} destroyed several structures along the coast and pushed up to {{convert|300|m|ft|abbr=on}} inland.<ref>{{cite news|first=Peter |last=Michael |publisher=''Herald Sun'' |date=3 February 2011 |accessdate=3 February 2011 |title=Morning heralds the big clean-up |url=http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/special-reports/morning-heralds-the-big-clean-up/story-fn7rxoal-1225999811648 |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://www.webcitation.org/5wDyH9IOJ?url=http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/special-reports/morning-heralds-the-big-clean-up/story-fn7rxoal-1225999811648 |archivedate=3 February 2011 |df=dmy }}</ref> In the hours after the storm's passage, police couild not venture beyond their station grounds as the situation had yet to be declared safe. Most of the beach had lost its sand and every structure was damaged to some degree. Near [[sunrise]] on 3 February, there were no reports of fatalities or injuries in Mission Beach.<ref>{{cite news|first=Petrina |last=Berry |work=The Sydney Morning Herald |agency=Australian Associated Press |date=3 February 2011 |accessdate=3 February 2011 |title=Damage extensive in Mission Beach |url=http://news.smh.com.au/breaking-news-national/damage-extensive-in-mission-beach-20110203-1ae98.html |archiveurl=https://www.webcitation.org/5wCs1Hiz3?url=http://news.smh.com.au/breaking-news-national/damage-extensive-in-mission-beach-20110203-1ae98.html |archivedate=2 February 2011 |deadurl=yes |df=dmy }}</ref> As the eye of the [[storm]] moved over several towns in Queensland, news reporters took the opportunity to give brief damage assessments before the eyewall returned. The worst affected areas were around [[Tully, Queensland|Tully]], Tully Heads, Silkwood, [[Mission Beach, Queensland|Mission Beach]], [[Innisfail, Queensland|Innisfail]] and [[Cardwell, Queensland|Cardwell]].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2011/02/03/3128710.htm|title=Despair and relief in cyclone's wake|publisher=ABC News|date=2010-02-03}}</ref>

According to residents in Tully, the town was "...a scene of mass devastation". An unknown number of homes were completely destroyed as intense winds, estimated at {{convert|209|km/h|mph|abbr=on}}, battered the area. Many other homes not destroyed sustained severe [[facade]] and or roof damage.<ref>{{cite news|first=Evan |last=Schwarten |publisher=''The Sydney Morning Herald'' |work=Australian Associated Press |date=2 February 2011 |accessdate=2 February 2011 |title=Tully a scene of mass devastation |url=http://news.smh.com.au/breaking-news-national/tully-a-scene-of-mass-devastation-20110203-1ae1h.html |archiveurl=https://www.webcitation.org/5wCTJV4KW?url=http://news.smh.com.au/breaking-news-national/tully-a-scene-of-mass-devastation-20110203-1ae1h.html |archivedate=2 February 2011 |deadurl=yes |df=dmy }}</ref> As daybreak came, reports from the town stated that about 90% of the structures along the main avenue sustained extensive damage.<ref>{{cite web|author=ONE News |publisher=TVNZ |date=3 February 2011 |accessdate=3 February 2011 |title=Yasi wreaks havoc but no fatalities |url=http://tvnz.co.nz/world-news/yasi-wreaks-havoc-but-no-fatalities-4012055 |archiveurl=https://www.webcitation.org/5wCsoAWZu?url=http://tvnz.co.nz/world-news/yasi-wreaks-havoc-but-no-fatalities-4012055 |archivedate=2 February 2011 |deadurl=yes |df=dmy }}</ref>

[[File:Downed power pole and lines on Hugh Street in Townsville.jpg|thumb|Downed power pole and lines on Kings Road in Townsville]]
An evacuation centre in [[Innisfail, Queensland|Innisfail]] began to flood as the worst of Yasi's impacts neared. Evacuees were reportedly hammering boards at the bottom of doors to prevent water from further entering the structure. Additionally, concerns over the building's windows came about as they flexed amidst winds over {{convert|200|km/h|mph|abbr=on}}.<ref>{{cite news|author=Australian Associated Press |publisher=''The Sydney Morning Herald'' |date=2 February 2011 |accessdate=2 February 2011 |title=Windows flex, water rushes into safe haven |url=http://news.smh.com.au/breaking-news-national/windows-flex-water-rushes-into-safe-haven-20110203-1ae1f.html |archiveurl=https://www.webcitation.org/5wCTwPhkU?url=http://news.smh.com.au/breaking-news-national/windows-flex-water-rushes-into-safe-haven-20110203-1ae1f.html |archivedate=2 February 2011 |deadurl=yes |df=dmy }}</ref> In [[Townsville]], numerous roofs were torn off buildings and sent hurtling down streets. Many windows are believed to have been broken as residents reported the sound of glass breaking throughout the night as the storm moved through.<ref>{{cite news|author=Australian Associated Press |publisher=News.au |date=2 February 2011 |accessdate=2 February 2011 |title=Sheets of roof torn from shopping centre |url=http://www.news.com.au/breaking-news/sheets-of-roof-torn-from-shopping-centre/story-e6frfku0-1225999133942 |archiveurl=https://www.webcitation.org/5wCTczmcA?url=http://www.news.com.au/breaking-news/sheets-of-roof-torn-from-shopping-centre/story-e6frfku0-1225999133942 |archivedate=2 February 2011 |deadurl=yes |df=dmy }}</ref> In Tully, the high school was destroyed and will need to be rebuilt.<ref name="Tully_01">{{cite web|last=Packham |first=Laura |publisher=''The Cairns Post'' |date=7 February 2011 |accessdate=7 February 2011 |title=Cyclone Yasi destroys Tully High School |url=http://www.cairns.com.au/article/2011/02/07/148095_local-news.html |archiveurl=https://www.webcitation.org/5wJIHzIeL?url=http://www.cairns.com.au/article/2011/02/07/148095_local-news.html |archivedate=7 February 2011 |deadurl=yes |df=dmy }}</ref>

Numerous emergency calls were made by residents trapped in their homes near the height of the storm. However, their calls could not be acted upon as conditions were too dangerous for police to travel in. One reported instance was of six people trapped in an apartment complex at [[Port Hinchinbrook]] near [[Cardwell, Queensland|Cardwell]], who could not be evacuated. The building was threatened by Yasi's [[storm surge]] which exceeded {{convert|3|m|ft|abbr=on}}. The group were later reported to be safe.<ref>{{cite news|publisher=ABC News|date=3 February 2011|accessdate=3 February 2011|title=Six confirmed safe at Port Hinchinbrook|url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2011/02/03/3128787.htm}}</ref> Around 10:30&nbsp;pm local time on 2&nbsp;February, Premier Bligh stated that an estimated 90,000 structures, including evacuation centres, were without power.<ref name="SMH1">{{cite news|publisher=''The Sydney Morning Herald'' |date=2 February 2011 |accessdate=2 February 2011 |title=Yasi unleashing fury on Qld coast |url=http://news.smh.com.au/breaking-news-national/yasi-unleashing-fury-on-qld-coast-20110203-1ae14.html |archiveurl=https://www.webcitation.org/5wCVOgwUc?url=http://news.smh.com.au/breaking-news-national/yasi-unleashing-fury-on-qld-coast-20110203-1ae14.html |archivedate=2 February 2011 |deadurl=yes |df=dmy }}</ref> This figure rose to 170,000 by morning and officials stated that some residents may be without power for more than a month.<ref>{{cite news|first=Dan |last=Nancarrow |publisher=''The Sydney Morning Herald'' |date=3 February 2011 |accessdate=3 February 2011 |title=Power down for weeks after Yasi |url=http://www.smh.com.au/environment/weather/power-down-for-weeks-after-yasi-20110203-1ae4p.html |archiveurl=https://www.webcitation.org/5wCsRMAJd?url=http://www.smh.com.au/environment/weather/power-down-for-weeks-after-yasi-20110203-1ae4p.html |archivedate=2 February 2011 |deadurl=yes |df=dmy }}</ref>

The water-supply system had failed in Townsville and there was only 24 hours supply, while the water had run out at [[Magnetic Island]] in one day.<ref>{{cite news|last=Wright |first=Tony |publisher=''[[The Age]]'' |date=4 February 2011 |accessdate=4 February 2011 |title=Surviving a night in the depths of hell |url=http://www.theage.com.au/national/surviving-a-night-in-the-depths-of-hell-20110203-1afgg.html |archiveurl=https://www.webcitation.org/5wDynrcwz?url=http://www.theage.com.au/national/surviving-a-night-in-the-depths-of-hell-20110203-1afgg.html |archivedate=3 February 2011 |deadurl=yes |df=dmy }}</ref>

Fears of total devastation to the banana and sugar cane crops arose as the storm struck land. Initial estimates stated that damage to sugar cane alone could reach A$505&nbsp;million.<ref>{{cite news|publisher=Herald Sun |date=3 February 2011 |accessdate=3 February 2011 |title=Sugar price soars on US markets as Cyclone Yasi hits Queensland |url=http://www.news.com.au/business/sugar-price-soars-on-us-markets-as-cyclone-yasi-hits-queensland/story-e6frfm1i-1225999207987 |archiveurl=https://www.webcitation.org/5wCuIlMlM?url=http://www.news.com.au/business/sugar-price-soars-on-us-markets-as-cyclone-yasi-hits-queensland/story-e6frfm1i-1225999207987 |archivedate=2 February 2011 |deadurl=yes |df=dmy }}</ref> On 3&nbsp;February, total losses from the storm were estimated to reach A$3.5&nbsp;billion ($3.54&nbsp;billion USD), this makes it the costliest cyclone to ever hit Australia.<ref>{{cite news|publisher=Reuters |date=3 February 2011 |accessdate=3 February 2011 |title=Cyclone Yasi to cost insurers A$3.5 bln&nbsp;— forecaster |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/2011/02/03/insured-losses-yasi-idUSLDE7121NR20110203 |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://www.webcitation.org/5wDxgXC9W?url=https://www.reuters.com/article/2011/02/03/insured-losses-yasi-idUSLDE7121NR20110203 |archivedate=3 February 2011 |df=dmy }}</ref> By 5&nbsp;February, A$2&nbsp;billion ($2.03&nbsp;billion USD) was confirmed to have been lost in agriculture, mining and local government.<ref>{{cite web|author=Andrew Fraser|publisher=''The Australian''|date=5 February 2011|accessdate=5 February 2011|title=Damages from Yasi to dwarf Larry's costs|url=http://www.theaustralian.com.au/national-affairs/damages-from-yasi-to-dwarf-larrys-costs/story-fn59niix-1226000445571}}</ref> An additional A$1&nbsp;billion has been lost in the tourism industry.<ref>{{cite web|author=Geoffrey Rogow |publisher=''The Wall Street Journal'' |date=5 February 2011 |accessdate=5 February 2011 |title=Australia Assesses Damage After Cyclone |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424052748704709304576125310817865204 |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://www.webcitation.org/5wGxy6jvl?url=http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704709304576125310817865204.html?mod=googlenews_wsj |archivedate=5 February 2011 |df= }}</ref>

One death occurred due to [[asphyxiation]], resulting from [[carbon monoxide]] poisoning as a result of a portable generator being used in a confined space at Bambaroo near [[Ingham, Queensland|Ingham]].<ref>{{cite web|author=Staff writers |publisher=''[[The Age]]'' |date=4 February 2011 |accessdate=4 February 2011 |title=Cyclone Yasi claims first victim |url=http://www.theage.com.au/environment/weather/cyclone-yasi-claims-first-victim-20110201-1acgp.html |archiveurl=https://www.webcitation.org/5wEU4y8uh?url=http://www.theage.com.au/environment/weather/cyclone-yasi-claims-first-victim-20110201-1acgp.html |archivedate=3 February 2011 |deadurl=yes |df=dmy }}</ref>

Two days after landfall, severe flooding from the rains severed the [[Bruce Highway]] between Townsville and Ingham leaving a 10 kilometre backup of traffic.<ref name="Yasi_01">{{cite web|last=Wright |first=Tony |publisher=''[[Brisbane Times]]'' |date=5 February 2011 |accessdate=5 February 2011 |title=Surging floodwaters leave desperate families stranded on the road home |url=http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/environment/weather/surging-floodwaters-leave-desperate-families-stranded-on-the-road-home-20110204-1agva.html |archiveurl=https://www.webcitation.org/5wFiyTByO?url=http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/environment/weather/surging-floodwaters-leave-desperate-families-stranded-on-the-road-home-20110204-1agva.html |archivedate=4 February 2011 |deadurl=yes |df=dmy }}</ref> Many of those who evacuated the devastated areas including emergency workers were stranded.<ref name="Yasi_01"/>

On 5 February, the remnants of Yasi as a tropical low created torrential rain as rainfall of {{convert|140|mm|in|abbr=on}} was recorded in [[Terowie]] and [[Yongala, South Australia|Yongala]].<ref name="Yasi_02">{{cite web|last1=Watkins |first1=Emily |first2=Sarah |last2=Mennie |publisher=Adelaide Now |work=[[The Advertiser (Adelaide)|The Sunday Mail]] |date=6 February 2011 |accessdate=6 February 2011 |title=Yasi-bred storms hit southern states |url=http://www.adelaidenow.com.au/news/south-australia/yasi-bred-storms-hit-southern-states/story-e6frea83-1226000778714 |archiveurl=https://www.webcitation.org/5wH72NEqz?url=http://www.adelaidenow.com.au/news/south-australia/yasi-bred-storms-hit-southern-states/story-e6frea83-1226000778714 |archivedate=5 February 2011 |deadurl=yes |df=dmy }}</ref> Flooding was widespread in towns of northern [[South Australia]] reaching even [[Renmark]] on the [[Murray River|River Murray]].<ref name="Yasi_02"/> In north-west [[Victoria, Australia|Victoria]], [[Mildura]] recorded the highest daily rainfall total on record, with {{convert|142|mm|in|abbr=on}} and Lyndhurst, a suburb of [[Melbourne]] recorded {{convert|180|mm|in|abbr=on}} of rain in the 24 hours falling up to 9am AEDT (22:00 UTC) on the 5 February.<ref name="Yasi_03">{{cite web|first=Natalie |last=Craig |publisher=''[[The Age]]'' |date=6 February 2011 |accessdate=6 February 2011 |title=Bad luck and Yasi's tail behind the drenching |url=http://www.theage.com.au/environment/weather/bad-luck-and-yasis-tail-behind-the-drenching-20110205-1aht5.html |archiveurl=https://www.webcitation.org/5wHSPkTwU?url=http://www.theage.com.au/environment/weather/bad-luck-and-yasis-tail-behind-the-drenching-20110205-1aht5.html |archivedate=5 February 2011 |deadurl=yes |df=dmy }}</ref>

On 6 February, the BOM reported that Ex-Tropical Cyclone Yasi was {{convert|85|km|mi|abbr=on}} north of [[Yulara, Northern Territory|Yulara]]<ref>{{Cite news
|title=Issued at 11:00 pm CST Sunday 6 February 2011. SEVERE WEATHER WARNING for Flash flooding for people in the Alice Springs District.
|publisher=[[Bureau of Meteorology (Australia)|Bureau of Meteorology, Darwin]]
|date=6 February 2011
|url=http://www.dynamicwebspace.com/10MB/duke_andy/NT_warning_IDD20040.txt
|accessdate=6 February 2011
|deadurl=yes
|archiveurl=https://www.webcitation.org/5wId8NpWn?url=http://www.dynamicwebspace.com/10MB/duke_andy/NT_warning_IDD20040.txt
|archivedate=6 February 2011
|df=dmy
}}</ref> and that heavy rains continued in the [[Alice Springs]] area. The deluge also continued in northern South Australia as vast areas continued to get rain.<ref name="Yasi_04">{{cite web|first=McGregor |last=Ken |publisher=''[[The Advertiser (Adelaide)|The Advertiser]]'' |work=Adelaide Now |date=7 February 2011 |accessdate=7 February 2011 |title=Desert rain records washed away |url=http://www.adelaidenow.com.au/ipad/desert-rain-records-washed-away/story-fn6bqphm-1226001083267 |archiveurl=https://www.webcitation.org/5wIe2myO7?url=http://www.adelaidenow.com.au/ipad/desert-rain-records-washed-away/story-fn6bqphm-1226001083267 |archivedate=6 February 2011 |deadurl=yes |df=dmy }}</ref> [[Hallett, South Australia|Hallett]] had a record rainfall amount of {{convert|98|mm|in|abbr=on}}.<ref name="Yasi_04"/> Damaging winds with gusts of more than 90&nbsp;km/h hit [[Marla, South Australia|Marla]] and [[Coober Pedy, South Australia|Coober Pedy]].<ref name="Yasi_04"/> More than {{convert|100|mm|in|abbr=on}} also fell at [[Arkaroola, South Australia|Arkaroola]] and Mt Dare, {{convert|92|mm|in|abbr=on}} fell at [[Marree, South Australia|Marree]], and {{convert|86|mm|in|abbr=on}} at [[Yunta, South Australia|Yunta]].<ref name="Yasi_04"/>

Even one week after the flooding rains, areas that were affected had become completely isolated.<ref name="Yasi_05">{{cite web|first=Sarah |last=Mennie |publisher=Adelaide Now |work=[[The Advertiser (Adelaide)|The Sunday Mail]] |date=13 February 2011 |accessdate=13 February 2011 |title=Outback flooding isolates hundreds |url=http://www.adelaidenow.com.au/news/south-australia/outback-flooding-isolates-hundreds/story-e6frea83-1226005093633 |archiveurl=https://www.webcitation.org/5wS1wgEbu?url=http://www.adelaidenow.com.au/news/south-australia/outback-flooding-isolates-hundreds/story-e6frea83-1226005093633 |archivedate=12 February 2011 |deadurl=yes |df=dmy }}</ref> At [[Challenger Mine|Challenger Gold Mine]] 150 people were isolated and emergency supplies had to be flown in. Cattle Stations near [[Oodnadatta, South Australia|Oodnadatta]], [[Glendambo, South Australia|Glendambo]] and the world's largest at [[Anna Creek Station]] were all isolated.<ref name="Yasi_05"/>

The [[Australian Defence Force]] (ADF) response was designated [[Operation Yasi Assist]]. The ADF established Joint Task Force 664, based at [[Lavarack Barracks]] in Townsville and under the command of Brigadier Stuart Smith, for operational command on 2 February 2011.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.news.com.au/breaking-news/floodrelief/defence-forms-joint-cyclone-taskforce/story-fn7ik2te-1225998925435|title=Defence forms joint cyclone taskforce|publisher=AAP/News|date=2011-02-02}}</ref>

==See also==
{{Portal|Tropical cyclones|Queensland}}
*[[2010–11 Australian region cyclone season]]
*[[Timeline of the 2010–11 Australian region cyclone season]]
*[[2010–2011 Queensland floods]]
*[[March 2010 Queensland floods]]
*[[Cyclone Althea]]
*[[Cyclone Tasha]]
*[[Cyclone Larry]]
*[[Cyclone Oswald]]
*[[Cyclone Ita]]
*[[Cyclone Tracy]]

==References==
{{Reflist|2}}

==External links==
{{Commons category|Tropical Cyclone Yasi (2011)}}
* [http://www.bom.gov.au/weather/cyclone/ Australian Bureau of Meteorology (TCWC's Perth, Darwin & Brisbane)]
* [http://www.usno.navy.mil/JTWC Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC)]
* [http://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/IOTD/view.php?id=49066 Tropical Cyclone Yasi] at [[NASA Earth Observatory]]
* [http://www.abc.net.au/news/2011-02-01/tropical-cyclones-explained/1926870 ABC News- Tropical Cyclones explained]
* [http://nla.gov.au/nla.arc-c10721 Tropical Cyclone Yasi (Feb 2011) - snapshots of relevant webpages from 2011]

{{Retired South Pacific cyclones}}
{{2010–11 South Pacific cyclone season buttons}}
{{2010–11 Australian region cyclone season buttons}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Yasi (2011)}}
[[Category:Category 5 Australian region cyclones]]
[[Category:Tropical cyclones in Australia]]
[[Category:2011 in Australia|Cyclone Yasi]]
[[Category:2011 in Vanuatu]]
[[Category:2011 in the Solomon Islands]]
[[Category:Tropical cyclones in Vanuatu]]
[[Category:Tropical cyclones in the Solomon Islands]]
[[Category:Disasters in Queensland]]
[[Category:2010–11 Australian region cyclone season]]
[[Category:2010–11 South Pacific cyclone season]]
[[Category:Retired South Pacific cyclones]]

Revision as of 01:17, 28 July 2018

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