A tropical low in the northern Coral Sea deepened into tropical Cyclone Tessi on 2 April 2000 and crossed the coast near Bambaroo and Crystal Creek (80 km north of Townsville) early on 3 April as a category 2 cyclone. Winds unroofed buildings, uprooted trees and power lines fell in the area between Ingham and Ayr. Approximately 70 per cent of Townsville lost power.

Heavy rain caused landslides on Townsville's Castle Hill destroying two homes and requiring the evacuation of another 50. Townsville Airport reported a record April wind gust of 130 km per hour and a daily rainfall total of 271.6 mm.

Although damage was widespread, the impact was considered minor.

The Insurance Council of Australia estimated the 2001 damage at $15 million, with the 2011 estimated normalised cost of $41 million.