Cyclone Tracy

Cyclone Tracy was a devastating tropical cyclone that struck Darwin, Australia, on Christmas Day in 1974. It packed winds of over 250 kilometers per hour (155 mph) and caused widespread destruction, leveling around 70% of the city’s buildings and leading to significant loss of life and severe injuries. Approximately 41 people died, and thousands were left homeless. The event highlighted the importance of disaster preparedness and response, leading to improved building codes and emergency management practices in Australia. Cyclone Tracy remains one of the most significant natural disasters in Australian history.