Cyclone Fina Hits Darwin as Snake Handling Industry Grows in Australia > 호주뉴스

Severe Tropical Cyclone Fina has intensified to a category three storm, marking the first cyclone of this strength in Australian waters in November in two decades. As the cyclone approaches Darwin, local authorities have closed the airport and supermarkets in anticipation of the storm's impact. Meanwhile, in Queensland, a surge in interest in snake handling courses reflects an increasing interaction between humans and snakes in Australia.

Cyclone Fina's Impact on Darwin
Cyclone Fina is expected to reach its peak intensity as it approaches Darwin on Saturday evening. The storm has sustained winds near the center of up to 150 km/h, with gusts reaching as high as 205 km/h. Local officials have urged residents to prepare for significant weather disruptions. The cyclone is anticipated to be closest to the city at around 9 p.m., prompting the closure of essential services, including the airport and supermarkets, to ensure public safety.

Surge in Snake Handling Courses
In a separate development, Queensland has seen a notable rise in the number of individuals enrolling in venomous snake handling courses. Herpetologists Christina Zdenek and Chris Hay, who run these courses, have reported a substantial increase in the number of snake catchers across Australia. Chris noted that the growth in the human population is leading to more interactions with snakes, which in turn has catalyzed the demand for training in handling these dangerous reptiles.

Training for Safety
The courses aim to equip participants with the skills necessary to safely handle some of the world's most venomous snakes. The instructors emphasize the importance of understanding snake behavior to prevent accidents. As snake populations continue to rise, the need for trained handlers becomes increasingly critical to ensure both human and animal safety.

Wrap-up
As Cyclone Fina approaches Darwin, residents are urged to stay informed and prepared for the storm's impact. Concurrently, the growth in snake handling courses highlights the changing dynamics of human-wildlife interaction in Australia, necessitating greater awareness and training to mitigate risks associated with venomous snakes.

Sources
theguardian.com