As Tropical Cyclone Hayley barrels towards Derby in Western Australia, the remote Kimberley coast town is bracing for the worst. With only one road in and out of the town, the residents are acutely aware of the risks. The town, along with Broome and Kununurra, is one of the largest in the region, but the approaching storm has everyone on edge. Three years ago, ex-Tropical Cyclone Ellie caused catastrophic floods, leaving Derby isolated for weeks. The town is now preparing for the potential impact of Hayley, which is expected to bring destructive winds, heavy rain, and the risk of flash flooding. The local bakery owner, Tameka Plummer, is hoping the town won't be cut off, as the only alternative is an expensive barge mission. The president of Derby/West Kimberley Shire, Peter McCumstie, acknowledges the potential impact, but reassures residents that preparations have been made. The Bureau of Meteorology's Jonathan How warns that the cyclone is expected to reach the coast near Cape Leveque on Tuesday evening, with winds near the center reaching 140km/h and gusts up to 195km/h. The warning area extends north of Broome to Kuri Bay, including Derby, Beagle Bay, and the entire Dampier Peninsula. The town is also famous for its massive tides, which can reach up to 12 meters, and the high tide on Tuesday could bring large waves. Assistant commissioner Stuart Wade from WA's Department of Fire and Emergency Services advises residents to shelter indoors, as it's too late to leave. The cyclone season in Australia runs from November to April, and while cyclones may be fewer in the future due to climate change, they are expected to be stronger. Meanwhile, in northern Queensland, communities are dealing with flooding from days of heavy rain, with widespread totals of 200mm a day due to a slow-moving monsoon trough. The Queensland premier, David Crisafulli, has assured residents that the government is ready to assist. As the storm approaches, the residents of Derby are hoping for the best and praying for rain.
