One of the most powerful cyclones hit Australia's northeast coast. Fierce rains and winds were up to 300 km (186 miles) an hour and were tearing roofs off and bringing down power lines. Mines, rail lines, and coal ports have been shut. Officials warned that the storm could affect the far inland hitting mining areas that are trying to recover from the recent floods. Many officials predicted it would be a frightening 24 hours of terrifying winds and harsh rains. More than 170,000 residents were without power in the western side of Cairns. Schools and airports are closed and military forces were used to airlift 200 hospital patients to Brisbane. The cyclone Yasi was rated a category five storm and many are now comparing the cyclone with Hurricane Katrina from 2005. Many were afraid cyclone Yasi would be worse then Cyclone Tracy which killed 71people. Many were found injured but luckily there were no deaths.-Ana Cristina Serrano
