Examine individual changes

'{{Short description|2014 Australian cyclone}} {{Use dmy dates|date=July 2015}} {{Distinguish|Hurricane Eta|Hurricane Ida|Hurricane Iota|Hurricane Delta}} {{Infobox weather event | name = Severe Tropical Cyclone Tu tu tu tu tu | image = Ita Apr 11 2014 0355Z.jpg | caption = Cyclone Ita at peak intensity nearing landfall in Queensland on 11 April | formed = 1 April 2014 | dissipated = 18 April 2014 | extratropical = 14 April 2014 }}{{Infobox weather event/BoM | gusts = 170 | winds = 120 | pressure = 922 }}{{Infobox weather event/JTWC | winds = 140 | pressure = 918 }}{{Infobox weather event/Effects | fatalities = 40 total{{#tag:ref|Total fatalities includes indirect deaths from a rotavirus outbreak related to the cyclone.|group="nb"|name="total deaths"}} | damages =1150000000 | affected = [[Solomon Islands]], [[Papua New Guinea]], [[Queensland]], [[New Zealand]] }}{{Infobox weather event/Footer | season = [[2013–14 Australian region cyclone season]] }} '''Severe Tropical Cyclone Ita''' was the strongest [[tropical cyclone]] in the Australian region by central pressure since [[Cyclone George|George]] in 2007, and by wind speed since [[Cyclone Monica|Monica]] in 2006. The system was first identified over the [[Solomon Islands]] as a tropical low on 1 April 2014, and gradually moved westward, eventually reaching cyclone intensity on 5 April. On 10 April, Ita intensified rapidly into a powerful Category 5 system on the Australian Scale, but it weakened to a Category 4 system in the hours immediately preceding [[Landfall (meteorology)|landfall]] the following day. At the time of landfall at [[Cape Flattery]] at 12 April 22:00 ([[UTC+10]]), the cyclone's [[Dvorak technique|Dvorak intensity]] was approximately T5.0, consistent with a weak Category 4 system, and considerably lower than the T6.5 observed when the system was at its peak intensity. Meteorologists noted the system had, at that time, begun an [[eyewall replacement cycle]]; as a result, the system was considerably less powerful than various intensity scales had predicted. As a result, Ita's impact on terrain was lessened. Owing to the rapid degradation of the cyclone before landfall, structural damage was relatively low at A$8.4&nbsp;million (US$7.9&nbsp;million). However, the agricultural industry suffered extensive impacts and total losses reached A$1.1&nbsp;billion (US$1&nbsp;billion). ==Meteorological history== {{storm path|Ita 2014 track.png}} On 1 April 2014, a broad, poorly-defined [[Low-pressure area|area of low pressure]] consolidated over the [[Solomon Islands]]. Initially only accompanied by flaring [[Atmospheric convection|convection]], the system persisted in a region of low [[wind shear]] and strong [[Outflow (meteorology)|outflow]] which promoted gradual [[Tropical cyclogenesis|development]].<ref>{{cite report|work=Joint Typhoon Warning Center |publisher=[[National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration]] |date=1 April 2014 |access-date=6 April 2014 |title=Significant Tropical Weather Advisory for the Western and South Pacific Oceans |url=http://weather.noaa.gov/pub/data/raw/ab/abpw10.pgtw..txt |archive-url=https://www.webcitation.org/6OVGjETka?url=http://gwydir.demon.co.uk/advisories/ABPW10-PGTW_201404010600.htm |archive-date=1 April 2014 |url-status=dead |df=dmy }}</ref> Upon formation, the [[Bureau of Meteorology]] (BoM) office in [[Brisbane]] monitored the system as a tropical low.<ref>{{cite report|work=Brisbane Tropical Cyclone Warning Center |publisher=Bureau of Meteorology |date=1 April 2014 |access-date=6 April 2014 |title=Tropical Cyclone Three Day Outlook for the Coral Sea |url=http://www.bom.gov.au/products/IDQ10810.shtml |archive-url=https://www.webcitation.org/6OWoBiSIA?url=http://gwydir.demon.co.uk/advisories/IDQ10810_201404010430.htm |archive-date=2 April 2014 |url-status=dead |df=dmy }}</ref> [[Rainband|Banding features]] gradually developed and wrapped around the circulation and deep convection became persistent by 2&nbsp;April.<ref>{{cite report|work=Joint Typhoon Warning Center |publisher=National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration |date=2 April 2014 |access-date=6 April 2014 |title=Significant Tropical Weather Advisory for the Western and South Pacific Oceans |url=http://weather.noaa.gov/pub/data/raw/ab/abpw10.pgtw..txt |archive-url=https://www.webcitation.org/6OWo26g75?url=http://gwydir.demon.co.uk/advisories/ABPW10-PGTW_201404020600.htm |archive-date=2 April 2014 |url-status=dead |df=dmy }}</ref> A large [[central dense overcast]] developed over the low early on 3&nbsp;April, prompting the [[Joint Typhoon Warning Center]] (JTWC) to issue a [[Tropical Cyclone Formation Alert]].<ref>{{cite report|work=Joint Typhoon Warning Center |publisher=National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration |date=3 April 2014 |access-date=6 April 2014 |title=Tropical Cyclone Formation Alert |url=http://weather.noaa.gov/pub/data/raw/wt/wtps21.pgtw..txt |archive-url=https://www.webcitation.org/6OYLWNKPx?url=http://gwydir.demon.co.uk/advisories/WTPS21-PGTW_201404030330.htm |archive-date=3 April 2014 |url-status=dead |df=dmy }}</ref> After moving away from Papua New Guinea, Ita underwent [[Rapid deepening|explosive intensification]] and attained its peak intensity as a Category&nbsp;5 severe tropical cyclone early on 11&nbsp;April. Winds were estimated to have reached 220&nbsp;km/h (140&nbsp;mph) alongside a minimum central pressure of 922&nbsp;[[Bar (unit)|mbar]] ([[Pascal (unit)|hPa]]; 27.23&nbsp;[[Inches of Mercury|inHg]]). Turning to the south-southeast, the storm weakened somewhat before making [[Landfall (meteorology)|landfall]] near [[Cape Flattery (Queensland)|Cape Flattery]] as a Category&nbsp;4 later on 11&nbsp;April. An automated weather station on [[Lizard Island]], roughly {{convert|5|km|mi|abbr=on}} from the storm's centre, recorded a pressure of 954&nbsp;mbar (hPa; 28.17&nbsp;inHg). Once onshore Ita weakened dramatically to a Category&nbsp;1 within 18&nbsp;hours. Maintaining gale-force winds the storm turned southwest and accelerated, eventually moving offshore north of [[Mackay, Queensland|Mackay]] on 13&nbsp;April. The following day Ita transitioned into an [[extratropical cyclone]] as it moved away from Australia and towards New Zealand.<ref name="PTCR">{{cite report|author=Brisbane Tropical Cyclone Warning Centre|work=Bureau of Meteorology|publisher=Government of Australia|date=16 April 2014|access-date=18 April 2014|title=Severe Tropical Cyclone Ita|url=http://www.bom.gov.au/announcements/sevwx/qld/qldtc20140405.shtml}}</ref> Ita's extratropical remnants combined with a low pressure system to the south and re-intensified. On 17 April, the low-level circulation center of the storm collapsed, as Ita affected New Zealand, bringing heavy rainfall and powerful winds.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.weatherzone.com.au/news/ita-slamming-into-new-zealand/43175|title=Ita slamming into New Zealand|author=Rob Sharpe|publisher=Weatherzone|date=April 17, 2014|access-date=April 18, 2017}}</ref> On 18 April, Ita's remnants curved to the west and the south, before dissipating offshore of New Zealand later on the same day. ==Preparations and impact== ===Solomon Islands=== {| class="wikitable" style="float:right; margin:0 0 0.5em 1em; float:right;" |+'''Deaths and damage by country''' |- style="text-align:center;" ! '''Country''' !! Total<br>deaths !! Total damages<br>(US$) |- | Australia ||align="right"| 0 ||align="right"| $1&nbsp;billion |- | New Zealand ||align="right"| 0 ||align="right"| $42.9&nbsp;million |- | [[Papua New Guinea]] ||align="right"| 0 || {{N/A}} |- | [[Solomon Islands]] ||align="right"| 40 ||align="right"| $107.8&nbsp;million |- | colspan = 3 | <small>Sources cited in text.</small> |} As the precursor tropical low to Cyclone Ita affected the Solomon Islands, local authorities issued heavy flood warnings, tropical disturbance and cyclone watches.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.pacificdisaster.net/pdnadmin/data/original/SLB_FL_20140403__Homes_inundated.pdf|title=Heavy Downpour Claims Two Lives|publisher=Solomon Times|date=April 3, 2014|access-date=April 5, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140407073146/http://www.pacificdisaster.net/pdnadmin/data/original/SLB_FL_20140403__Homes_inundated.pdf|archive-date=7 April 2014|url-status=dead}}</ref> Nearly two days of continuous heavy rains from the storm caused [[flash flood]]ing in the Solomon Islands.<ref name="Stuff1"/> Over a four-day span, more than {{convert|1000|mm|in|abbr=on}} fell at the [[Gold Ridge (mine)|Gold Ridge mine]] in [[Guadalcanal]], with {{convert|500|mm|in|abbr=on}} falling in a 24‑hour span.<ref>{{cite web|publisher=Solomon Times Online|date=10 April 2014|access-date=10 April 2014|title=Future of Gold Ridge Mining Uncertain After Floods|url=http://www.solomontimes.com/news/future-of-gold-ridge-mining-uncertain-after-floods/8116}}</ref> The [[Matanikau River]], which runs through the capital city [[Honiara]], broke its banks on 3&nbsp;April and devastated nearby communities. Thousands of homes along with the city's two main bridges were washed away, stranding numerous residents.<ref name="Stuff1">{{cite web|author=Michael Field|work= [[Stuff.co.nz]] |date=5 April 2014|access-date=6 April 2014|title=Kiwis join Solomons flood clean up|url=http://www.stuff.co.nz/world/south-pacific/9908511/Flooded-Solomon-Islands-hit-by-6-0-earthquake}}</ref> The national hospital had to evacuate 500&nbsp;patients to other facilities due to flooding.<ref>{{cite web|work=United Nations Children's Fund|publisher=ReliefWeb|date=4 April 2014|access-date=6 April 2014|title=Solomon Islands Humanitarian Situation Report #1, 1- 4 April 2014|url=http://reliefweb.int/sites/reliefweb.int/files/resources/UNICEF_Pacific_SitRep1_Solomon_Floods_4Apr2014.pdf}}</ref> Graham Kenna from [[Save the Children]] stated that, "the scale of destruction is like something never seen before in the Solomon Islands."<ref>{{cite web|work=Save the Children|publisher=ReliefWeb|date=5 April 2014|access-date=6 April 2014|title=Fears for deadly outbreak of dengue fever in flood and quake hit Solomons|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/solomon-islands/fears-deadly-outbreak-dengue-fever-flood-and-quake-hit-solomons}}</ref> According to Permanent Secretary Melchoir Mataki, the majority of homes destroyed in Honiara were built on a [[flood plain]] where construction was not allowed.<ref name="ABC1"/> Severe flooding took place on Guadalcanal.<ref name="Stuff1"/> Throughout the Solomon Islands, 22&nbsp;people were killed while an estimated 50,000&nbsp;people were affected by the floods.<ref name="OCHA419">{{cite report|work=United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs|publisher=ReliefWeb|date=18 April 2014|access-date=19 April 2014|title=Solomon Islands: Flash Floods Situation Report No. 4 (as of 18 April 2014)|url=http://reliefweb.int/sites/reliefweb.int/files/resources/OCHA_SLB_FlashFloods_Sitrep4_20140418.pdf}}</ref> Approximately 9,000&nbsp;were left homeless.<ref name="ABC1">{{cite web|author=Sean Dorney|publisher=Australian Broadcasting Corporation|date=8 April 2014|access-date=8 April 2014|title=Solomon Islands National Disaster Council issues all clear in wake of deadly Honiara floods|url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-04-08/solomon-islands-needs-reconstruction-rather-than-rehabilitation/5374008}}</ref><ref name="SMH1">{{cite web|agency=Agence France-Presse |work=Sydney Morning Herald |date=6 April 2014 |access-date=6 April 2014 |title=Solomon Islands floods: search continues for missing |url=http://www.smh.com.au/world/solomon-islands-floods-search-continues-for-missing-20140406-zqrjz.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140406110724/http://www.smh.com.au/world/solomon-islands-floods-search-continues-for-missing-20140406-zqrjz.html |archive-date=6 April 2014 |url-status=dead |df=dmy }}</ref> Total economic losses from the disaster were tremendous, amounting to [[Solomon Islands dollar|SI$]]787.3&nbsp;million (US$107.8&nbsp;million) or roughly 9.2&nbsp;percent of the country's [[gross domestic product]].<ref name="gfdrr_report">{{cite report|work=Government of the Solomon Islands|publisher=Global Facility for Disaster Reduction and Recovery|date=July 2014|access-date=December 26, 2014|title=Rapid Assessment of the Macro and Sectoral Impacts of Flash Floods in the Solomon Islands, April 2014|url=https://www.gfdrr.org/sites/gfdrr/files/Solomon%20RAI%20Flood%20.pdf|archive-date=6 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201106235736/https://www.gfdrr.org/sites/gfdrr/files/Solomon%20RAI%20Flood%20.pdf|url-status=dead}}</ref> ===Papua New Guinea=== [[File:Cyclone Ita ir lalo-animated.gif|thumb|Animated infrared satellite loop of Cyclone Ita on 8&nbsp;April developing off the southeast coast of Papua New Guinea.]] Ahead of Ita affecting Papua New Guinea, the National Weather Service issued tropical cyclone warnings for all island and coastal communities in [[Milne Bay Province]].<ref name="Cyclone Warning">{{cite news|title=Weather Service issues tropical cyclone warning|url=http://dev.postcourier.com.pg/Stories/weather-service-issues-tropical-cyclone-warning/|access-date=8 April 2014|newspaper=Post Courier|date=8 April 2014|author=Martin, Mellissa}} {{Subscription required}}</ref> The NWS also urged people in the East and West New Britain provinces, New Ireland and Bougainville, the southeast sector of the Solomon Sea and North Coral Sea areas to take precautions.<ref name="Cyclone Warning"/> All schools and businesses were closed for several days in Milne Bay while residents were urged to remain indoors.<ref name="PC1"/> The storm brought unusually heavy rains and strong winds to Milne Bay Province and the [[National Capital District]]. The hardest hit areas were the islands of [[Milne Bay Province#Islands|Rossell]], [[Misima Island|Misima]], [[Samarai]], [[Woodlark Island|Woodlark]], [[Milne Bay Province#Islands|Sau]], and [[Vanatinai]]. Unconfirmed reports of casualties were received from these areas.<ref name="PC1"/> On [[Milne Bay Province#Islands|Ware Island]], 54&nbsp;homes and 1&nbsp;classroom were destroyed.<ref name="PC2"/> Along the mainland, [[Alotau]] experienced strong winds that downed trees and power lines, leaving many without power, and flooding that destroyed homes.<ref name="PC1">{{cite news|author=Konopa Kana|newspaper=Post Courier|date=11 April 2014|access-date=11 April 2014|title= Disaster office issues cyclone warning|url=http://dev.postcourier.com.pg/Stories/disaster-office-issues-cyclone-warning/#.U0chXsc0174|url-access=subscription}}</ref> Throughout Milne Bay, an estimated 62,000&nbsp;people were affected by the storm.<ref name="PC2">{{cite news|author=Nellie Setepano|newspaper=Post Courier|date=11 April 2014|access-date=11 April 2014|title= MP appeals for help as cyclone hits islands|url=http://dev.postcourier.com.pg/Stories/mp-appeals-for-help-as-cyclone-hits-islands/#.U0cjR8c0174|url-access=subscription}}</ref> Some flooding was reported in [[Port Moresby]].<ref>{{cite news|newspaper=Port Courier|date=10 April 2014|access-date=10 April 2014|title= Cyclone warning for Port Moresby|url=http://dev.postcourier.com.pg/News/cyclone-warning-for-port-moresby/#.U0ck7sc0175|url-access=subscription}}</ref> Further north in [[Jiwaka Province]], the a bridge along the [[Highlands Highway]] crossing the Tuman River was washed away.<ref>{{cite news|author=Johnny Poiya|newspaper=Post Courier|date=10 April 2014|access-date=10 April 2014|title= Flood cuts off Highlands H'way|url=http://dev.postcourier.com.pg/Stories/flood-cuts-off-highlands-hway/#.U0clSMc0174|url-access=subscription}}</ref> Officials in Milne Bay Province stated that 1,159&nbsp;homes were destroyed by the storm; however, local authorities claimed thousands more collapsed.<ref name="PNGaid">{{cite news|newspaper=Post Courier|date=15 April 2014|access-date=16 April 2014|title= PM, Speaker help cyclone victims|url=http://dev.postcourier.com.pg/Stories/pm-speaker-help-cyclone-victims/#.U06aTsc0174|url-access=subscription}}</ref> ===Australia=== Ahead of the cyclone affecting [[Cape York Peninsula|Cape York]], the [[Bureau of Meteorology]] issued a cyclone watch on 9 April, for the far northern [[Queensland]] coast between [[Cape Grenville]] and [[Port Douglas, Queensland|Port Douglas]]. The Bureau predicted it to reach category five and would be the most severe storm to affect Queensland since [[Cyclone Yasi]] in 2011.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-04-09/cyclone-ita-predicted-to-reach-category-four-off-far-north-quee/5376786|title=Cyclone Ita predicted to reach category four off far north Queensland|work=ABC News|date=9 April 2014}}</ref> On 10 April, Cyclone Ita was upgraded to category five, with a cyclone warning issued for the far northern Queensland coast between [[Lockhart River, Queensland|Lockhart River]] and [[Cairns]].<ref>{{Cite news | url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-04-10/cyclone-ita-gathers-speed/5381848 |title = Tropical Cyclone Ita upgraded to category five| newspaper=ABC News |date = 10 April 2014}}</ref> In anticipation of the Cyclone, tourists and staff were evacuated from a holiday resort on [[Lizard Island]] on 10 April. As Ita neared landfall, all residents in [[Cooktown]] and [[Hopevale, Queensland|Hopevale]] were advised to evacuate either to a community cyclone shelter or to leave the towns.<ref>{{Cite news |url=http://www.weatherzone.com.au/news/cyclone-ita-shows-no-sign-of-weakening-as-it-heads-for-north-queensland/38808 |title=Cyclone Ita shows no sign of weakening as it heads for north Queensland |access-date=12 April 2014 |date=12 April 2014 |work=ABC News }}</ref> [[File:Cyclone Ita 2014 two week rainfall.jpg|thumb|left|Satellite estimated rainfall map from 1–13 April showing accumulations throughout Ita's path. The highest amounts, {{convert|560|to|600|mm|in|abbr=on}}, fell just off the coast of Papua New Guinea and over the Coral Sea. The heaviest rains in Australia were confined to areas west of [[Ingham, Queensland|Ingham]] and [[Townsville, Queensland|Townsville]].<ref name="NASA">{{cite web|author1=Hal Pierce |author2=Rob Gutro |publisher=NASA|date=15 April 2014|access-date=17 April 2014|title=Ita (Southern Pacific Ocean)|url=http://www.nasa.gov/content/goddard/ita-southern-pacific-ocean/#.U0_57McxEXq}}</ref>]] Though a weakened storm at landfall, Ita brought damaging winds to coastal areas around Cape Flattery where gusts peaked at {{convert|160|km/h|mph|abbr=on}}. An automated weather station on Lizard Island recorded gusts up to {{convert|155|km/h|mph|abbr=on}} before the [[anemometer]] failed. [[Cooktown, Queensland|Cooktown]], the closest populated area to where the storm moved ashore, experienced winds up to {{convert|125|km/h|mph|abbr=on}}. Gale-force winds affected areas as far south as the [[Northumberland Islands]],<ref name="PTCR"/> with [[Mackay, Queensland|Mackay]] recording gusts up to {{convert|94|km/h|mph|abbr=on}}.<ref>{{cite report|work=Bureau of Meteorology |publisher=Government of Australia |year=2014 |access-date=18 April 2014 |title=Mackay, Queensland April 2014 Daily Weather Observations |url=http://www.bom.gov.au/climate/dwo/201404/pdf/IDCJDW4078.201404.pdf |archive-date=19 April 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140419020614/http://www.bom.gov.au/climate/dwo/201404/pdf/IDCJDW4078.201404.pdf |url-status=dead |df=dmy }}</ref> A minor [[storm surge]] accompanied the cyclone; however, it coincided with low-tide and had limited effects. Minor flora damage was reported at Mackay, in the heart of city the top of a palm tree was blown off by the high winds. In Shoal Point minor damage was reported with some branches fell with one damaging a fence. The greatest impact from Ita resulted from heavy rains, with many areas receiving up to {{convert|300|mm|in|abbr=on}} in 24&nbsp;hours. [[Cardwell, Queensland|Cardwell]] reported an April record {{convert|307.0|mm|in|abbr=on}} of rain in 24 hours,<ref>{{cite report|work=Bureau of Meteorology |publisher=Government of Australia |year=2014 |access-date=18 September 2014 |title=Cardwell, Queensland April 2014 Daily Weather Observations |url=http://www.bom.gov.au/climate/dwo/201404/html/IDCJDW4027.201404.shtml |archive-date=19 April 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140419020614/http://www.bom.gov.au/climate/dwo/201404/pdf/IDCJDW4078.201404.pdf |url-status=dead |df=dmy }}</ref> while in [[Tully, Queensland|Tully]] {{convert|312.0|mm|in|abbr=on}} of rain fell over two days,<ref>{{cite report|work=Bureau of Meteorology |publisher=Government of Australia |year=2014 |access-date=18 September 2014 |title=Tully Sugar Mill 2014 Rainfall Observations |url=http://www.bom.gov.au/jsp/ncc/cdio/weatherData/av?p_nccObsCode=136&p_display_type=dailyDataFile&p_stn_num=032042&p_startYear= |archive-date=19 April 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140419020614/http://www.bom.gov.au/climate/dwo/201404/pdf/IDCJDW4078.201404.pdf |url-status=dead |df=dmy }}</ref> causing moderate flooding in both towns. In [[Bowen, Queensland|Bowen]], {{convert|110|mm|in|abbr=on}} fell in one-hour, triggering a [[flash flood]] through the towns main street.<ref name="PTCR"/> Cooktown received {{convert|197.8|mm|in|abbr=on}} of rain over a three-day span.<ref>{{cite report|work=Bureau of Meteorology |publisher=Government of Australia |year=2014 |access-date=18 April 2014 |title=Cooktown, Queensland April 2014 Daily Weather Observations |url=http://www.bom.gov.au/climate/dwo/201404/pdf/IDCJDW4035.201404.pdf |archive-date=13 April 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140413162846/http://www.bom.gov.au/climate/dwo/201404/pdf/IDCJDW4035.201404.pdf |url-status=dead |df=dmy }}</ref> The [[Daintree River|Daintree]], [[Mulgrave River|Mulgrave]], [[Haughton River|Haughton]], and [[Herbert River|Herbert]] rivers all experienced major flooding.<ref name="PTCR"/> [[Townsville]] reported {{convert|214.2|mm|in|abbr=on}} of rain and wind gusts of up to {{convert|93|km/h|mph|abbr=on}} causing only minor damage.<ref name="PTCR"/> The outer bands of the Ita caused heavy rain and [[thunderstorm|storms]] as far south as the [[Wide Bay–Burnett]] region as it tracked back out to sea again, [[Kingaroy]] recorded {{convert|50.4|mm|in|abbr=on}} in less than an hour from a severe thunderstorm,<ref>{{cite report|work=Bureau of Meteorology |publisher=Government of Australia |year=2014 |access-date=18 September 2014 |title=Kingaroy, Queensland April 2014 Daily Weather Observations |url=http://www.bom.gov.au/climate/dwo/201404/html/IDCJDW4069.201404.shtml |archive-date=13 April 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140413162846/http://www.bom.gov.au/climate/dwo/201404/pdf/IDCJDW4035.201404.pdf |url-status=dead |df=dmy }}</ref> while The [[Town of 1770]] received {{convert|81.6|mm|in|abbr=on}}.<ref>{{cite report|work=Bureau of Meteorology |publisher=Government of Australia |year=2014 |access-date=18 September 2014 |title=Seventeen Seventy 2014 Rainfall Observations |url=http://www.bom.gov.au/jsp/ncc/cdio/weatherData/av?p_nccObsCode=136&p_display_type=dailyDataFile&p_stn_num=039314&p_startYear= |archive-date=13 April 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140413162846/http://www.bom.gov.au/climate/dwo/201404/pdf/IDCJDW4035.201404.pdf |url-status=dead |df=dmy }}</ref> [[Cooktown]] experienced the greatest structural damage from winds, with 200&nbsp;homes affected, of which 16 were severely damaged or destroyed.<ref name="PTCR"/> Many buildings, including a 140‑year‑old hotel in the town centre, lost their roof. Power was cut to the whole town and many trees were uprooted and destroyed; however, no injuries were reported as the majority of the towns residents were safe in the towns community cyclone shelter.<ref name="Cooktown">{{Cite news |url=http://www.weatherzone.com.au/news/cyclone-ita-residents-assess-damage-in-far-north-queensland/39494 |title=Cyclone Ita: Residents assess damage in far north Queensland |access-date=12 April 2014 |date=12 April 2014 |work=ABC News }}</ref> Heavy rain caused moderate flooding throughout most of North Queensland, five people were rescued from floodwaters between Cooktown and [[Cairns]] and flooding in the [[Daintree River]] threatened several properties in [[Mossman, Queensland|Mossman]], while further south a few low-lying houses were inundated in [[Ingham, Queensland|Ingham]].<ref>{{Cite news |url=http://www.weatherzone.com.au/news/cyclone-ita-several-rescued-from-floodwaters-in-far-north-queensland/39666 |title=Cyclone Ita: Several rescued from floodwaters in far north Queensland |access-date=12 April 2014 |date=12 April 2014 |work=ABC News }}</ref> Several houses were also flooded from a minor storm surge in Cairns, however damage was limited.<ref>{{Cite news |url=http://www.weatherzone.com.au/news/cyclone-ita-storm-surge-threat-eases-in-cairns/39579 |title=Cyclone Ita: Storm surge threat eases in Cairns |access-date=12 April 2014 |date=12 April 2014 |work=ABC News }}</ref> Total economic damage from Cyclone Ita amounted to A$1.1&nbsp;billion (US$1&nbsp;billion).<ref name="AONBenfield"/> The greatest losses took place in the agricultural sector, with a {{convert|700|km|mi|abbr=on}} stretch of sugarcane country suffering damage. Roughly 80&nbsp;percent of the sugarcane crop in the Herbert River District was destroyed with the remaining crops damaged. Insurance companies initially estimated that claims could match those from [[Cyclone Oswald]] in 2013;<ref>{{cite web|author1=Brian Williams |author2=Kate McKenna |publisher=Courier-Mail|date=14 April 2014|access-date=16 April 2014|title=Cyclone Ita damage bill up to $1 billion after sugarcane and banana plantations damaged|url=http://www.couriermail.com.au/news/queensland/cyclone-ita-damage-bill-up-to-1-billion-after-sugarcane-and-banana-plantations-damaged/story-fnihsrf2-1226883001979}}</ref> however, insured losses only reached A$8.4&nbsp;million (US$7.9&nbsp;million).<ref name="AONBenfield">{{cite web|publisher=AON Benfield|year=2014|access-date=December 26, 2014|title=April 2014 Global Catastrophe Recap|url=http://thoughtleadership.aonbenfield.com/Documents/20140507_if_april_global_recap.pdf|archive-date=12 February 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200212031308/http://thoughtleadership.aonbenfield.com/Documents/20140507_if_april_global_recap.pdf|url-status=dead}}</ref> ===New Zealand=== [[File:Cyclone Ita water rise in Auckland, New Zealand.jpg|thumb|[[Storm surge]] from the remnants of Ita in Auckland near Tamaki Drive]] The remnants of Ita brought heavy rains and strong winds to much of New Zealand on 17&nbsp;April. Winds, peaking at {{convert|130|km/h|mph|abbr=on}} in [[Westport, New Zealand|Westport]], downed many trees and power lines.<ref name="NZ1">{{cite web|publisher=Stuff.co.nz|date=17 April 2014|access-date=17 April 2014|title=Chaos as storm strikes|url=http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/9952521/Gales-rain-cause-havoc}}</ref><ref name="NZ2"/> Much of the country experienced gale-force winds, though the [[North Island]] and northwestern areas of the [[South Island]] bore the brunt of the storm. Numerous cars were rolled by the winds, including one which was blown off a bridge over the [[Haast River]]. Buses transporting workers from the [[Stockton Mine]] were also knocked over. Much of Westport was isolated by downed trees and the whole Buller District was left without electricity when the transmission lines were damaged. In [[Auckland, New Zealand|Auckland]], tidal and flash flooding closed several roads and trapped residents. Gusts on the [[Auckland Harbour Bridge]] peaked at {{convert|100|km/h|mph|abbr=on}}. Throughout Auckland, at least 15,000&nbsp;people were without power.<ref name="NZ2">{{cite web|author=Reissa Su|work=International Business Times|date=17 April 2014|access-date=17 April 2014|title=Former Cyclone Ita Brings Severe Weather to New Zealand; Floods and Power Cuts Hit Auckland|url=http://au.ibtimes.com/articles/548625/20140417/cyclone-ita-auckland-north-island-severe-weather.htm#.U0_8dccxEXq|archive-date=18 April 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140418220959/http://au.ibtimes.com/articles/548625/20140417/cyclone-ita-auckland-north-island-severe-weather.htm#.U0_8dccxEXq|url-status=dead}}</ref> Entire hillsides reportedly collapsed in rural areas of [[Clarence, New Zealand|Clarence]] and [[Ward, New Zealand|Ward]]. Agricultural damage in parts of the South Island were compared to [[Cyclone Bola]] in 1988, a storm regarded as one of the worst to ever strike New Zealand.<ref>{{cite web|publisher=Radio New Zealand|date=19 April 2014|access-date=19 April 2014|title=Greymouth takes stock after storm|url=http://www.radionz.co.nz/news/national/242051/greymouth-takes-stock-after-storm}}</ref> Throughout the [[Grey District]], 39&nbsp;homes were rendered uninhabitable while at least 60&nbsp;other structures sustained varying degrees of damage. Losses in the district were estimated to be in excess of [[New Zealand dollar|NZ$]]20&nbsp;million (US$17.1&nbsp;million).<ref>{{cite web|publisher=ONE News|date=19 April 2014|access-date=21 April 2014|title=West Coast families face second night out of flooded homes|url=http://tvnz.co.nz/national-news/west-coast-families-face-second-night-flooded-homes-5936031}}</ref> Throughout New Zealand, insured losses amounted to NZ$55.3&nbsp;million (US$42.9&nbsp;million).<ref name="NIWA">{{cite web|publisher=National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research|year=2014|access-date=December 26, 2014|title=April 2014 New Zealand Storm ( 2014-04-17 ) |url=http://hwe.niwa.co.nz/event/April_2014_New_Zealand_Storm}}</ref> ==Aftermath== In November 2014, the name ''Ita'' was [[Tropical cyclone naming#Retirement|retired]] from the list of names in the Australian basin and replaced with ''Ivana''.<ref>{{cite web|publisher=Bureau of Meteorology|year=2014|access-date=12 November 2014|title=Tropical Cyclone Names|url=http://www.bom.gov.au:80/cyclone/about/names.shtml|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141012034940/http://www.bom.gov.au:80/cyclone/about/names.shtml|archive-date=12 October 2014}}</ref> In a situation unusual for a cyclone name, a second unused name on the pre-2014 list, ''Ira'',<ref>{{cite web|publisher=Bureau of Meteorology|year=2014|access-date=2 September 2020|title=Tropical Cyclone Names|url=http://www.bom.gov.au/cyclone/about/names.shtml|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141112101950/http://www.bom.gov.au/cyclone/about/names.shtml|archive-date=12 November 2014}}</ref> would also be replaced at the same time by ''Irving'' due to similar spelling and pronunciation. ''Irving'' would ultimately be used for the first time in the [[Cyclone Irving (2018)|2017-18]] season. ===Solomon Islands=== [[File:Relief supplies for Solomon Islands (13841468084).jpg|thumb|Relief supplies from the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade]] Soon after the floods, Honiara and Guadalcanal were declared disaster areas by the Solomon Government.<ref name="OCHA1">{{cite web|work=United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs|publisher=ReliefWeb|date=5 April 2014|access-date=6 April 2014|title=OCHA Flash Update 1: Solomon Islands Flash Floods, 4 April 2014|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/solomon-islands/ocha-flash-update-1-solomon-islands-flash-floods-4-april-2014}}</ref> Debris left behind by the floods initially hampered relief efforts, with the runway at [[Honiara International Airport]] blocked by two destroyed homes. Food supplies started running low as the Red Cross provided aid to the thousands homeless. The airport was reopened on 6&nbsp;April, allowing for supplies from Australia and New Zealand to be delivered.<ref name="SMH1"/> Roughly 20&nbsp;percent of Honiara population relocated to evacuation centers as entire communities were swept away.<ref name="NZH1"/> New Zealand offered an immediate [[New Zealand dollar|NZ$]]300,000 in funds and deployed a [[Lockheed C-130 Hercules|C-130 Hercules]] with supplies and emergency response personnel.<ref name="NZH1">{{cite news|author1=Rebecca Quilliam |author2=Audrey Young |work=New Zealand Herald |date=6 April 2014 |access-date=6 April 2014 |title=Solomon Islands disaster: Thousands left homeless |url=http://www.nzherald.co.nz/world/news/article.cfm?c_id=2&objectid=11233285 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140406233006/http://www.nzherald.co.nz/world/news/article.cfm?c_id=2&objectid=11233285 |archive-date=6 April 2014 |url-status=dead }}</ref> Australia donated [[Australian dollar|A$]]250,000 on 6&nbsp;April and sent engineers and response teams to aid in relief efforts.<ref>{{cite web|work=9 News|date=6 April 2014|access-date=6 April 2014|title=Aust boosts aid to flooded Solomon Islands|url=http://news.ninemsn.com.au/national/2014/04/06/13/19/aust-boosts-aid-to-flooded-solomon-islands|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140410133743/http://news.ninemsn.com.au/national/2014/04/06/13/19/aust-boosts-aid-to-flooded-solomon-islands|archive-date=10 April 2014|url-status=dead}}</ref> On 8&nbsp;April, Australia increased its aid package to A$3&nbsp;million while New Zealand provided an additional NZ$1.2&nbsp;million.<ref name="ABC1"/><ref>{{cite web|publisher=ONE News|date=8 April 2014|access-date=8 April 2014|title=NZ sends aid after Solomon Islands deadly floods|url=http://tvnz.co.nz/world-news/nz-sends-aid-after-solomon-islands-deadly-floods-5889628}}</ref> [[Papua New Guinea]] and [[Taiwan]] provided [[Papua New Guinean kina|PGK]]&nbsp;1&nbsp;million and US$200,000 in funds, respectively.<ref>{{cite web|author=Elaine Hou |work=Focus Taiwan |date=8 April 2014 |access-date=8 April 2014 |title=Taiwan donates US$200,000 to flood-ravaged Solomon Islands |url=http://focustaiwan.tw/news/aipl/201404080030.aspx |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140408214455/http://focustaiwan.tw/news/aipl/201404080030.aspx |archive-date=8 April 2014 |url-status=dead |df=dmy }}</ref><ref>{{cite news|newspaper=Post Courier|date=12 April 2014|access-date=12 April 2014|title= O'Neill assists Solomon Islands|url=http://dev.postcourier.com.pg/News/oneill-assists-solomon-islands-with-k1m-for-relief-assistance/#.U0lggsc0174|url-access=subscription}}</ref> In the immediate aftermath of the floods, there were fears that the flooding could worsen an already ongoing [[dengue fever]] outbreak and cause outbreaks of [[diarrhea]] and [[conjunctivitis]].<ref name="ABC1"/> Over the following two months, a widespread [[rotavirus]] outbreak unfolded in Honiara, Guadalcanal, and Gizo, with more than 1,000&nbsp;people falling ill. Severe cases of diarrhea became common among children, with 18&nbsp;dying as a result in early June.<ref>{{cite web|work=Australian Broadcasting Corporation|publisher=ReliefWeb|date=June 4, 2014|access-date=December 27, 2014|title=Solomon's diarrhoea outbreak kills at least 18 children|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/solomon-islands/solomons-diarrhoea-outbreak-kills-least-18-children}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|work=Radio New Zealand International|date=June 11, 2014|access-date=December 27, 2014|title=Rotavirus claims more in Solomons|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/solomon-islands/rotavirus-claims-more-solomons}}</ref> By mid-July, the outbreak was fully contained with no further cases of the disease.<ref name="SI_Unicef">{{cite report|work=United Nations Children's Fund|publisher=ReliefWeb|date=July 10, 2014|access-date=December 27, 2014|title=UNICEF Solomon Islands Humanitarian Response and Recovery Update #3 – Reporting period: 11 June – 10 July 2014|url=http://reliefweb.int/sites/reliefweb.int/files/resources/UNICEF_Pacific_Solomon_Islands_Humanitarian_and_Recovery_Update_10July2014.pdf}}</ref> Additionally, 24&nbsp;people contracted [[leprosy]] in Honiara within a shelter.<ref>{{cite web|work=Radio New Zealand International|publisher=ReliefWeb|date=June 11, 2014|access-date=December 27, 2014|title=24 cases of leprosy confirmed in Solomon Islands|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/solomon-islands/24-cases-leprosy-confirmed-solomon-islands}}</ref> ===Papua New Guinea=== On 15&nbsp;April, Papua New Guinea [[Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea|Prime Minister]] [[Peter O'Neill]] and [[List of Speakers of the National Parliament of Papua New Guinea|Speaker of Parliament]] [[Theo Zurenuoc]] provided [[Papua New Guinean kina|PGK]]300,000 (US$113,700) in funds to Milne Bay Province.<ref name="PNGaid"/> The [[Papua New Guinea Defence Force]] was dispatched to deliver relief supplies to the region. Damage surveys were conducted simultaneously using the Defense Force's helicopters to determine the areas in need of the most immediate aid.<ref>{{cite news|author=Konopa Kana|newspaper=Post Courier|date=15 April 2014|access-date=16 April 2014|title= Army assists cyclone-hit islands|url=http://dev.postcourier.com.pg/Stories/army-assists-cyclone-hit-islands/#.U06cK8c0174|url-access=subscription}}</ref> Ten relief teams were dispatched on 16&nbsp;April to assist with clean up efforts. The nation's health office also warned of the dangers of post-storm diseases due to damaged sewer systems. Communications with the outermost islands of the province remained difficult and limited to short-distance radio.<ref name="PNG416">{{cite news|newspaper=Post Courier|date=16 April 2014|access-date=16 April 2014|title= Disaster team ready for Cyclone clean up|url=http://dev.postcourier.com.pg/News/disaster-team-ready-for-cyclone-clean-up/#.U06dLcc0174|url-access=subscription}}</ref> By 17&nbsp;April, a barge with 57&nbsp;bales of rice was sent to [[Wari island]] where thousands of residents were in need of food.<ref>{{cite web|publisher=Radio New Zealand International|date=17 April 2014|access-date=18 April 2014|title=PNG police in Milne Bay defend relief efforts after Cyclone Ita|url=http://www.radionz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/241907/png-police-in-milne-bay-defend-relief-efforts-after-cyclone-ita}}</ref> ===Australia=== Owing to the severity of agricultural damage, the average cost of [[avocado]]s, bananas, [[iceberg lettuce]], and [[papayas]] increased.<ref>{{cite web|author=John McCarthy|publisher=Courier Mail|date=20 April 2014|access-date=20 April 2014|title=Lost crop production from Cyclone Ita to drive up fruit and vegetable prices in Queensland|url=http://www.couriermail.com.au/news/lost-crop-production-from-cyclone-ita-to-drive-up-fruit-and-vegetable-prices-in-queensland/story-fnihsrk2-1226890027799}}</ref> ===Earthquakes=== {{See also|Earthquakes in 2014}} On 4&nbsp;April (5&nbsp;April local time<ref name="Stuff1"/>) a 6.0&nbsp;[[Moment magnitude scale|M_W]] earthquake, with its [[epicenter]] on [[Makira]] Island, struck the Solomon Islands.<ref>{{cite web|publisher=United States Geological Survey|date=4 April 2014|access-date=6 April 2014|title=M6.0 – 28km WSW of Kirakira, Solomon Islands|url=http://www.earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/eventpage/usc000p4ty|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140407084550/http://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/eventpage/usc000p4ty|archive-date=7 April 2014|url-status=dead}}</ref> Though no reports of damage were received in relation to it, officials were concerned about the possibility of landslides resulting from it.<ref name="Stuff1"/> Two more large earthquakes, a 7.1&nbsp;M_W followed by a 6.5&nbsp;M_W, struck near the region on 11&nbsp;April;<ref>{{cite web|publisher=United States Geological Survey|date=14 April 2014|access-date=16 April 2014|title=M7.1 – 57km SW of Panguna, Papua New Guinea|url=https://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/eventpage/usc000pft9#summary}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|publisher=United States Geological Survey|date=14 April 2014|access-date=16 April 2014|title=M6.5 – 78km SW of Panguna, Papua New Guinea|url=https://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/eventpage/usc000pfuy#summary}}</ref> resulting in two deaths and causing significant damage in parts of Papua New Guinea.<ref>{{cite web|publisher=Radio New Zealand International|date=19 April 2014|access-date=19 April 2014|title=Latest Quake centred just off PNG's Bougainville|url=http://www.radionz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/242080/latest-quake-centred-just-off-png%27s-bougainville}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|newspaper=Post Courier|date=14 April 2014|access-date=16 April 2014|title= Man dies in B'ville quake|url=http://dev.postcourier.com.pg/News/man-dies-in-bville-quake/#.U06ZSMc0174|url-access=subscription}}</ref> On 12&nbsp;April, a 7.6&nbsp;M_W earthquake occurred just south of Makira Island and was followed by a 7.4&nbsp;M_W the next day.<ref>{{cite web|publisher=United States Geological Survey|date=14 April 2014|access-date=16 April 2014|title=M7.6 – 100km SSE of Kirakira, Solomon Islands |url=https://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/eventpage/usc000phx5}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|publisher=United States Geological Survey|date=14 April 2014|access-date=16 April 2014|title=M7.4 – 111km S of Kirakira, Solomon Islands |url=https://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/eventpage/usc000piqj#summary}}</ref> Though the earthquakes only produced a localised [[tsunami]], with limited effects,<ref name="ABC414">{{cite web|author=Nick Perry|agency=Associated Press|work=ABC News|date=14 April 2014|access-date=16 April 2014|title=2 Powerful Earthquakes Hit Solomon Islands|url=https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/tsunami-warning-strong-quake-solomons-23304992|location=Wellington, New Zealand}}</ref> they prompted evacuations and delayed relief efforts across the Solomon Islands.<ref>{{cite web|work=United Nations Children's Fund|publisher=ReliefWeb|date=14 April 2014|access-date=16 April 2014|title=Solomon Islands Humanitarian Situation Report #4, 10-14 April 2014|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/solomon-islands/solomon-islands-humanitarian-situation-report-4-10-14-april-2014}}</ref> Another tsunami warning was issued on 19&nbsp;April following two more large earthquakes, 6.6&nbsp;M_W and 7.5&nbsp;M_W, near Papua New Guinea.<ref>{{cite web|publisher=United States Geological Survey|date=19 April 2014|access-date=19 April 2014|title=M6.6 – 59km SW of Panguna, Papua New Guinea|url=https://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/eventpage/usb000pqwe#summary}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|publisher=United States Geological Survey|date=19 April 2014|access-date=19 April 2014|title=M7.5 – 75km SW of Panguna, Papua New Guinea |url=https://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/eventpage/usb000pr89#summary}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|author1=Lincoln Feast |author2=Alison Williams |author3=Janet Lawrence |agency=Reuters |date=19 April 2014 |access-date=19 April 2014 |title=Strong 7.5 magnitude quake hits off Papua New Guinea |url=http://www.reuters.com/article/us-earthquake-papua-idUSBREA3I08K20140419 |archive-date=20 April 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140420002834/http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/04/19/us-earthquake-papua-idUSBREA3I08K20140419 |url-status=live |df=dmy |newspaper=Reuters }}</ref> ==See also== {{Portal|Tropical cyclones}} *[[Cyclone Guba]]&nbsp;– a similarly slow moving storm in 2007 that caused deadly flooding in [[Papua New Guinea]] *[[Cyclone Yasi]]&nbsp;– a Category 5 severe tropical cyclone that affected Queensland in 2011 *[[Cyclone Lusi]]&nbsp;– a storm a month prior to Ita that also caused extensive damage as an extratropical cyclone in New Zealand *[[Cyclone Bola]]&nbsp;– Regarded as one of the worst former tropical cyclones to have impacted New Zealand *[[Cyclone Rewa]]&nbsp;– Long-lived storm that affected similar areas *[[Cyclone Ului]]&nbsp;– Similar storm to Cyclone Yasi, but occurred a year before it ==Notes== {{Reflist|group=nb}} ==References== {{reflist|2}} ==External links== {{Commons category|Cyclone Ita}} *[http://www.met.gov.sb/ Solomon Islands Meteorological Service] *[https://onesearch.slq.qld.gov.au/permalink/61SLQ_INST/dls06p/alma99183794521002061 Queensland cyclone photographs], [[State Library of Queensland]]. Includes photographs of the aftermath of Cyclone Ita. {{2013–14 Australian region cyclone season buttons}} {{Retired Australian cyclones}} {{Category 5 Australian region tropical cyclones}} {{DEFAULTSORT:Ita 2014}} [[Category:2013–14 Australian region cyclone season]] [[Category:Category 5 Australian region cyclones]] [[Category:Tropical cyclones in Queensland]] [[Category:Tropical cyclones in New Zealand]] [[Category:Tropical cyclones in the Solomon Islands]] [[Category:Tropical cyclones in Papua New Guinea]] [[Category:Retired Australian region cyclones]] [[Category:Tropical cyclones in 2014|Ita]]'