Tropical Cyclone Narelle made landfall on Friday morning near Coen, a remote community in Far North Queensland, as a powerful category four system with wind gusts exceeding 250 km/h. The storm has since weakened to a category two but continues to pose significant threats as it moves westward toward the Gulf of Carpentaria and the Northern Territory.
Key Takeaways
Tropical Cyclone Narelle struck Far North Queensland as a category four system before weakening to a category two. While structural damage was minimal, authorities warn of severe flooding and destructive winds as the storm moves toward the Northern Territory.
- Tropical Cyclone Narelle made landfall in Cape York Peninsula with wind gusts exceeding 250 km/h
- The cyclone has been downgraded to a category two but remains dangerous
- Hundreds evacuated as the storm threatens remote communities and could intensify in the Gulf of Carpentaria
- Authorities warn of severe flooding and power outages in its wake
According to multiple reports, Narelle caused widespread power outages, uprooted trees, and damaged infrastructure along its path. While structural damage was relatively minimal on the east coast, authorities warn that the storm's heavy rainfall could trigger severe flooding in already saturated catchments. Queensland Premier David Crisafulli emphasized the ongoing danger, stating that 'we are not out of the danger zone yet.'
The Bureau of Meteorology reported that Narelle is expected to intensify again as it crosses the warm waters of the Gulf of Carpentaria, potentially reaching severe tropical cyclone status before impacting Northern Territory communities on Saturday. The warning zone extends from Nhulunbuy to Port McArthur, including remote Indigenous communities such as Borroloola and Numbulwar. About 500 people have been evacuated from Numbulwar to Darwin as a precaution.
In preparation for the storm's aftermath, hundreds of energy crews are poised to restore power once conditions allow. The state government is also working with the Commonwealth on recovery payments for affected areas. As Tropical Cyclone Narelle continues its path, authorities urge residents in potentially impacted regions to remain vigilant and follow safety instructions.
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