Two tropical cyclones threaten northern Australia with heavy rain
Two tropical systems forming near northern Australia could bring heavy rainfall of 100–200 mm (4–8 inches) and thunderstorms to the Top End and Cape York Peninsula. The Bureau of Meteorology is monitoring both systems, with one likely to develop into a cyclone by April 15, 2025, potentially impacting coastal areas.
Tropical system 29U off the coast of northern Australia. Image credit: JMA/Himawari-9, Zoom Earth, The Watchers. Acquired at 17:40 UTC on April 10, 2025
A tropical low, designated 29U, is currently located in the Arafura Sea and is forecast to move southwest into the Timor Sea in the coming days. Forecasters report a high likelihood (approximately 60%) of it developing into a tropical cyclone by April 15, 2025.
The system may bring heavy rainfall and thunderstorms to parts of the Northern Territory’s Top End and Queensland’s Cape York Peninsula. Rainfall totals of 100–200 mm (4–8 inches) are expected in some locations.
Although the tropical low is expected to remain offshore, its proximity to the coast could still result in severe weather conditions. Authorities continue to monitor the system, stating that any potential impacts will depend on its exact path.
A second tropical low may develop in the eastern Arafura Sea or the Gulf of Carpentaria starting April 16. Forecasts currently indicate a low probability of cyclone development. At present, it is considered a lower risk than 29U.
This cyclone season has recorded 10 cyclones, ranking it among the most active in recent years. Elevated sea surface temperatures and other favorable conditions are contributing to the increased tropical activity, including the formation of 29U, which will be named “Errol” if it develops into a cyclone.
Residents in potentially affected areas are advised to follow official updates from the Bureau of Meteorology as monitoring continues. The development of these systems is partially influenced by an Equatorial Rossby wave affecting weather patterns north of Australia.
References:
1 Two tropical cyclones brewing off northern Australia coast could bring fresh bout of wild weather – 9news – April 10, 2025
2 High chance of tropical cyclone near Australia next week – Weatherzone – April 10, 2025
I’m a science journalist and researcher at The Watchers, contributing to the Epicenter edition, where I cover peer-reviewed scientific research and emerging discoveries across Earth and space sciences. With a background in astronomy and a passion for environmental science, I’ve worked in shark and coral conservation in Fiji, conducting reef and shark-behavior research, contributing to mangrove restoration, and earning PADI Open Water and Coral Reef Certifications. I bring a blend of scientific rigor and storytelling to illuminate the discoveries shaping our planet and beyond.
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