Canada Issues Travel Advisory Amid Cyclone Fina’s Impact in Australia: What You Need to Know for Safe Travel

Published on November 25, 2025

Due to the growing threat of Tropical Cyclone Fina, the Canadian government has issued a new travel advisory advising all Canadians who are currently in or intend to visit Australia to stay vigilant. This advisory, which was updated on November 23, 2025, offers vital information about the storm’s effects on various parts of Australia, particularly those near the country’s northern and western coastlines.

Government officials have issued a strong warning due to Tropical Cyclone Fina’s landfall on the Cobourg Peninsula and Melville Island, as well as its predicted landfall on the Kimberley coast, close to the King George River. Both tourists and Canadian nationals in Australia are advised to follow local authorities’ instructions and keep abreast of the most recent weather developments.

Cyclone Fina’s Current Path and Potential Hazards in Australia

Tropical Cyclone Fina has become a major concern as it travels through the Timor Sea, having already made landfall in the Cobourg Peninsula and Melville Island. As of the most recent weather updates, the storm has intensified, with wind speeds reaching 150 km/h near the centre, accompanied by wind gusts of up to 205 km/h. Classified as a Category 3 cyclone, Fina is expected to continue causing significant disruption as it heads towards the Kimberley coast, where it is projected to make landfall on November 24.

The Australian Bureau of Meteorology has reported that Cyclone Fina is moving at a slow pace, which heightens concerns regarding flash floods and landslides. These weather-related dangers could easily cause major disruptions to essential services, including transportation systems, power networks, and water supplies. Moreover, telecommunications might be affected, and the accessibility of emergency services could be significantly limited, posing additional risks for those in the affected regions.

Disruptions to Local Infrastructure: A Growing Concern

One of the primary concerns stemming from Cyclone Fina is the potential for significant infrastructural disruptions. The powerful winds and heavy rains associated with the cyclone could lead to flash flooding and landslides, which may severely damage roads and power lines. As a result, transportation and access to essential services like medical care, food supplies, and water may become difficult, if not impossible, in the worst-hit areas.

In the face of these challenges, Canada’s travel advisory urges all Canadians to exercise caution and monitor local weather reports closely. Given the unpredictable nature of tropical storms, residents and tourists alike are being advised to prepare for the worst and take all necessary precautions.

What This Means for Canadians in the Affected Areas

The Government of Canada has stressed the importance of staying informed and following the guidance of local officials to ensure personal safety. Canadians currently in the affected areas should prioritize securing their safety by staying indoors and away from flood-prone regions. They are advised to have emergency supplies on hand, including food, water, medications, and essential documents, in case evacuation becomes necessary.

Those planning to travel to or within the affected regions should reconsider their plans if possible, as the storm’s impact could cause delays, cancellations, and unsafe travel conditions. Those already in Australia are encouraged to register with the Registration of Canadians Abroad (ROCA) service, a free and confidential service that keeps Canadians updated on emergencies abroad and notifies them of personal emergencies at home.

Preparing for Emergency Situations in Australia

Travelers and residents alike must take specific measures to prepare for emergencies, especially in areas expected to experience direct impacts from Cyclone Fina. Canadians are urged to regularly check for updates from the Australian Bureau of Meteorology and local news stations. These sources will provide timely information regarding road closures, evacuation orders, and other critical updates.

In addition, travelers should familiarise themselves with emergency numbers in Australia and have a contingency plan in place should they need to evacuate or seek shelter. It is vital to ensure that all communication lines are open and that one is able to receive alerts through mobile devices or radios, even if telecommunications systems are disrupted.

Essential Resources for Canadians Traveling to Australia

For Canadians travelling internationally, the Government of Canada provides a wealth of resources designed to ensure the safety of citizens abroad. Those who haven’t already signed up for the Registration of Canadians Abroad (ROCA) service should do so immediately. This registration allows Canadian embassies and consulates to provide assistance during emergencies.

In the event of natural disasters, consular services can help Canadians find accommodation, access medical services, and stay in touch with family back home. To sign up, travelers can visit the Government of Canada’s official website, where the latest travel advisories, safety tips, and emergency protocols are also available.

Why Monitoring Government Resources is Crucial

Staying informed is the key to ensuring safety during extreme weather events like Cyclone Fina. The Canadian government regularly updates its travel advisories to reflect changes in weather patterns, emergency protocols, and local conditions. These updates should be taken seriously, as they provide critical information that could potentially save lives.

The official Government of Canada website and the Australian Bureau of Meteorology are essential sources of information. They offer up-to-the-minute weather updates, as well as detailed safety advice for those directly in the path of the cyclone.

What You Should Do if Cyclone Fina Affects Your Travel Plans

If you’re in an affected area, the first step is to secure shelter and avoid travelling unless absolutely necessary. Flash floods and the threat of landslides can make even short trips hazardous, especially in the cyclone’s path. It’s also essential to keep emergency contact numbers handy and to stay updated on evacuation routes.

For those still planning to visit Australia or currently travelling through other regions of the country, now is the time to check with airlines, accommodation providers, and local authorities for updates on possible cancellations or restrictions. It’s always a good idea to have flexible travel plans during unpredictable weather events.

Final Thoughts and Precautions

Canadians in Australia and those who intend to travel there should be cautious and pay attention to official advisories as Tropical Cyclone Fina continues to move inland. It is essential to stay informed, heed local authorities’ advice, and have a plan in place for any emergency given the possibility of flash floods, power outages, and disruptions to communication networks.

Canadian travelers are reminded that safety should always come first in light of these difficulties. Despite the risks presented by this strong storm, they can make sure that their stay in Australia is as safe and pleasurable as possible by being informed and ready.