Australians Relieved as Cyclone Hits “Handful” of Homes

3 February 2011 (Last Updated February 3rd, 2011 18:30)

Inhabitants in the cyclone-struck Australian state of Queensland have voiced relief after the 300km/h winds, which threatened to destroy even cyclone-proof houses, missed heavily populated areas. As Cyclone Yasi hit the state on Wednesday, forecasts showed it was likely to hit only a ha

Inhabitants in the cyclone-struck Australian state of Queensland have voiced relief after the 300km/h winds, which threatened to destroy even cyclone-proof houses, missed heavily populated areas.

As Cyclone Yasi hit the state on Wednesday, forecasts showed it was likely to hit only a handful of small towns in a region that is home to about 400,000 people, reports Reuters.

Before the winds struck, engineers warned that while most modern homes are designed to withstand high wind-speeds, a severe cyclone could suck walls out and blow roofs off buildings.

The lack of damage was attributed to several days of preparations and laws that ensured newer homes and buildings are strong enough to survive a cyclone.