Killer cyclone hits Australia

[AlecWest]

Hurricane Katrina, the most destructive storm to hit the U.S. in years, had a max speed of 155 miles per hour in the affected land areas. That's nothing compared to Cyclone Larry that hit the Queensland coast at 180 miles per hour (290 KPH) according to Australia's "The Age":

http://www.theage.com.au/news/national/monster-cyclone-slams-into-coast/2006/03/20/114...703248280.html

I hope no one here lives in Northern Queensland or in the Northern Territory. Hell, this looks like it's a pretty mean storm.

[bigmicka]

apparently the local weather station couldnt get accurate readings of the wind speed, as the technician had to go outside to get the reading.

that being said there is also another Cyclone that is heading towards the coast behind Larry which is supposed to be of greater intensity. although it is moving rather slowly.

mic

[MackemX]

the weather system is just messed up now

I'd hate to see it in 100 years time

[Doramius]

There have been plenty of stronger hurricanes & tornadoes to hit the US. Katrina was just so destructive because it hit New Orleans, which has many high population poverty areas. My leaf blower could be more destructive in the shanty areas. Andrew was pretty bad in destruction wise with winds up to 155MPH. But as far as wind strength, Hugo got into the 190MPH range at times. It was only about 135 when it hit South Carolina though.

If you're talking destruction from storms, you'd have to factor in destruction from earthquakes, tornadoes, tsunamis, etc. Hurricanes & cyclones are put to shame when up against those natural disasters.