 Cyclone Gordon developed over the South Pacific basin on 2 January, where it peaked as a Category 3 cyclone with maximum sustained winds of 130 km/h (80 mph) and a minimum barometric pressure of on 7 January.However, between 7 January and 8 January, satellite imagery indicated a significant weakening trend.Upon reaching the Australian region early on 9 January, Gordon had deteriorated to a Category 1.