Australia’s Queensland Premier David Crisafulli has warned Far North Queensland residents to brace for “significant” damage as Tropical Cyclone Narelle, now a powerful category five system, moves rapidly toward the coast.
The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has forecast the cyclone to make landfall on Friday morning, bringing destructive winds, heavy rainfall and dangerous flooding across multiple communities.
Narelle, described as one of the strongest systems to approach Queensland in recent years, is currently tracking toward the coastline between Cape Tribulation and Lockhart River, with wind speeds expected to exceed 225km/h near the centre.
Premier Crisafulli said the situation was evolving rapidly and urged residents to act immediately, warning that “the window to act is obviously closing” and stressing the need for families to secure their homes, prepare emergency plans and stay informed through official channels.
The Premier emphasised that the storm poses multiple threats, including destructive winds, flash flooding, storm surge and widespread infrastructure damage.
Emergency services across the state have been placed on high alert, with additional police, paramedics and swift‑water rescue teams deployed to Far North Queensland, and hundreds of energy workers positioned in the region to support rapid repairs once conditions allow.
BOM officials have warned that rainfall could intensify quickly over already saturated areas, increasing the risk of dangerous flash flooding.
Authorities have reiterated that residents should not attempt to go outside during the cyclone or seek “social‑media footage,” stressing that flying debris could be lethal.
Several communities, including Coen, Cooktown, Lockhart River and Wujal Wujal, have activated emergency plans, with evacuations underway in the most vulnerable areas.
Premier Crisafulli urged Queenslanders to support one another and follow all official warnings, saying, “I have every faith that we’ll get through it, if communities take it seriously, look out for each other, and prepare well now.”
Residents are encouraged to monitor BOM updates, follow instructions from local authorities and avoid travel in affected areas. Further updates will be provided as the cyclone approaches landfall.
