Sunday, January 13, 2008

Weekly Report Daintree Coast 14/1/08 - 20/01/08

The last week has seen lots of sultry weather again, with patches of rain, typical for this time of the year. Strong westerly winds last night continue today.
The rain has really made the forest green up and there are birds, lizards, frogs and snakes everywhere. It is a great time for wildlife spotting.
NORTH TROPICAL COAST AND TABLELANDS DISTRICTShowers and thunderstorms mainly afternoon and evening and tending to rain areasat night. Local moderate to heavy falls in southern parts. Light to moderate NWto N winds.Outlook for Tuesday ... Further showers and thunderstorms tending to rainareas in the south with some moderate to heavy falls. Winds tending S/SE in thesouth.Outlook for Wednesday ... Scattered showers and thunderstorms. North Tropical Waters, Cooktown to Cardwell:
Monday until midnight: W/NW winds 20/25 knots in northern waters with seas to 2.2 metres outside the reef, 1.6 metres inside the reef. W/NW winds 10/20 knots in the south with seas 1.7 metres outside the reef, 1.3 metres inside the reef. Scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms with squalls.
Tuesday: W/NW winds 20/25 knots in northern waters with seas to 2.2 metres outside the reef, 1.6 metres inside the reef. W/NW winds 10/20 knots in the south with seas 1.7 metres outside the reef, 1.3 metres inside the reef. Scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms with squalls.
Wednesday: W/NW winds 20/25 knots in northern waters with seas to 2.2 metres outside the reef, 1.6 metres inside the reef. W/NW winds 10/20 knots in the south with seas 1.7 metres outside the reef, 1.3 metres inside the reef. Scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms with squalls. The road to Cape Tribulation is open, but if any of the forecast heavy rain evens materialize, there may be localized flooding. I recommend caution when crossing patches of floodwater, even in 4WDs. It is very easy for an inexperienced driver to misjudge this water and be washed away. Drivers should also be aware of fallen branches and trees on the road after wind. The Bloomfield Track is currently open, but is also prone to localized flooding after rain events. Those attempting the track should only do so in heavy duty 4WDs, and be prepared for very deep, washed out and rocky river crossings. It is also a good idea to seek local advice on the day.