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Tropical Cyclone Narelle poised to hit far north Queensland as ‘high-end’ category four storm
Authorities warn of strong winds, heavy rain, flooding and coastal storm surge
TL;DR
- Severe Tropical Cyclone Narelle is expected to make landfall in far north Queensland as a high-end category four system.
- Threats include winds over 250km/h, heavy rain, flooding, and storm surge.
- The cyclone is tracking towards the town of Coen.
- Climate change and record high sea surface temperatures are believed to be fueling the cyclone's intensity.
- Rising sea levels and global heating are expected to exacerbate the impacts.
- Emergency warnings are in place for Lockhart River, Port Stewart, and Coen.
- The cyclone is expected to weaken but remain destructive as it crosses the peninsula.
- A second landfall is expected in the Top End on Saturday evening, threatening already flooded communities.