Cyclone Ilsa wreaks havoc on Australia's northwest coast.
Cyclone Ilsa, the most powerful tropical cyclone in eight years, hit Australia's northwest coast with winds gusting up to 289 kph (180 mph) but skirted larger population centers and resulted in no immediate reports of injuries. The cyclone weakened to Category 2 as it moved inland, causing minimal damage. The Pardoo Roadhouse and Tavern was destroyed, but the two owners stayed throughout the storm and were unharmed. Port Hedland, the world's largest bulk export port, was spared significant damage as the city's docks had been cleared of ships before the storm struck.