 Striking the Sir Edward Pellew Group of Islands as a high-end Category 4 cyclone, Kathy wrought significant damage in the region. A storm surge of 4.2 m (14 ft) struck Vanderlin Island, destroying much of the nesting ground for sea turtles. Winds were recorded up to 232 km / h (144 mph) before the station's anemometer failed. Several camps across the islands were destroyed. Offshore, 20 vessels were caught in the storm, one of which sank and three others ran aground. One person perished on board the ship that sank during the storm. Losses sustained by the ships were placed at A $ 5 million (A $ 12.7 million 2011 AUD; US $ 10 million 2011 USD).
