A severe tropical cyclone slammed into Australia’s northeast coast on Friday, unleashing destructive winds and heavy rain, as authorities warned residents to take shelter against potentially significant damage.
Designated as Cyclone Narelle, the storm landed in the remote regions of Far North Queensland as a category four tropical system, approaching one category shy of the most powerful rating. Queensland Premier David Crisafulli stressed the urgency, cautioning that extensive rainfall could lead to flash flooding.
Response teams, including power and health services, stood ready to initiate recovery operations once conditions permitted. Crisafulli urged residents to remain indoors, highlighting potential electricity losses and damage. As the cyclone weakens while moving west, it might regain strength over the Gulf of Carpentaria before affecting the Northern Territory.
(With inputs from agencies.)