Queensland hit by devastating cyclone
Australia’s north-east coast has been battered by Cyclone Debbie, which has left a trail of destruction in its wake.
At least one person is believed to have died and 50,000 homes and businesses have been left without power as the storm sweeps along the north Queensland coast.
Cyclone Debbie made landfall at Airlie Beach in the Whitsunday Islands earlier today, bringing winds of up to 185 kms an hour.
It has caused extensive damage in the Whitsunday Islands, including Airlie Beach, upmarket Hamilton and Proserpine.
Towns along the Queensland coast are still being blasted by violent winds. The Australian government has announced a disaster response.
One hotel in the Whitsundays, the Daydream Island Resort & Spa, said its accommodation has suffered water damage, the roof has been blown off its spa and there is ‘significant’ damage to the resort’s jetty and pontoon.
Linsey McNeill
Editor Linsey McNeill has been writing about travel for more than three decades. Bylines include The Times, Telegraph, Observer, Guardian and Which? plus the South China Morning Post. She also shares insider tips on thetraveljournalist.co.uk
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