KERRY

History

Severe Tropical Cyclone Kerry developed from Tropical Depression 05F on 5 January 2005, approximately 315 nautical miles northeast of Port Vila, Vanuatu. Named by the Fiji Meteorological Service, the system moved southwest before tracking westward toward the northeast Queensland coast under the influence of a high-pressure ridge to its south. Kerry reached its peak intensity as a Category 3 system late on 7 January, with sustained winds of around 85 knots (157 km/h). An approaching upper-level trough subsequently weakened the steering ridge, causing the cyclone to turn south before it could reach the mainland. The system gradually deteriorated, falling to Category 2 on 11 January, Category 1 on 12 January, and dissipating as a remnant low by 13 January as it moved over cooler waters and into an environment of increasing wind shear.

Because Kerry's centre remained offshore throughout its life, direct wind and rain impacts on the Queensland coast were limited. However, the slow-moving system generated significant long-period swells that produced hazardous surf along the Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast, and into New South Wales. These conditions prompted numerous ocean rescues, and one person drowned as a result of the rough coastal surf. Kerry's active period lasted from 5 to 13 January 2005.

Sources: Bureau of Meteorology report Wikipedia