More flooding forecast for Australia’s northeast as storm in Coral Sea nears cyclone strength

BRISBANE, Australia (AP) — A tropical low strengthening over the Coral Sea is forecast to be the second cyclone in as many months to bring destructive winds and flooding to Australia’s northeast. The storm system expected to be named Tropical Cyclone Kirrily later Tuesday or Wednesday morning was tracking west toward the Queensland state coast. Winds gusting up to 75 mph were expected as it crossed the Whitsunday Islands on Wednesday evening before increasing to 93 mph on the Australian mainland. Storm tides created by Kirrily were expected to impact the coastal towns of Townsville and Mackay, and damaging flooding is possible inland. The Australia Day holiday is Friday and authorities are telling people to be vigilant and watch for weather warnings.