Tropical Cyclone Narelle Threatens Far North Queensland with ‘Hurricane-Force’ Winds

Far North Queensland is bracing for the impact of Tropical Cyclone Narelle, a rapidly intensifying system forecast to create landfall as a dangerous category five cyclone early Friday. Authorities are warning residents to prepare for destructive winds, intense rainfall, and widespread flooding, potentially making this the most significant cyclone in living memory to impact the region.

Cyclone Narelle: Current Status and Forecast

As of Wednesday evening, March 18, 2026, Tropical Cyclone Narelle was a category four system located approximately 400km off the coast of Queensland. The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) forecasts the cyclone will strengthen to a category five system before crossing the coast between Coen and Cooktown . Damaging wind gusts of up to 260 kilometers per hour are expected .

The cyclone is expected to bring intense rainfall, leading to flash flooding and a dangerous storm tide. Flood watches are in place extending south to Cairns and Ingham .

Potential Impacts and Warnings

Queensland Premier David Crisafulli has warned that this cyclone could be the biggest system many residents have seen in their lifetime . The destructive winds are expected to tear off roofs and propel debris at potentially fatal speeds.

An emergency alert was issued on Wednesday for Lockhart River, urging residents to prepare . A cyclone watch zone has been declared from Lockhart River to Port Douglas.

Authorities are emphasizing the danger of debris being propelled by the strong winds, warning that even small objects can be lethal . Residents are advised to stay indoors and avoid any unnecessary outdoor activity.

Broader Regional Impacts

Cyclone Narelle is forecast to potentially make three separate landfalls. After crossing Cape York, the system is expected to move into the Northern Territory’s Top Complete and potentially into Western Australia’s Kimberley coast .

The Northern Territory government has announced a AU$100 million (NZ$121.4 million) flood recovery fund to rebuild critical infrastructure, as communities such as Daly River and Palumpa continue to recover from recent flooding . Approximately 580 people remain in emergency shelters in Darwin and Mataranka.

Emergency Response

More than 100 emergency personnel have been deployed to the region to assist with preparations and potential rescue efforts . The army has been placed on standby to provide support if needed.

Staying Informed

Residents are encouraged to stay up-to-date with the latest emergency warnings through the following resources:

• ABC Emergency website
• Bureau of Meteorology website
• ABC Radio (frequencies listed below)

Cairns and surrounds: 801 AM and 106.7 FM

Cairns North: 95.5 FM

Coen: 105.9 FM

Cooktown: 105.7 FM

Lakeland: 106.1 FM

Laura: 106.1 FM

Mossman and surrounds: 639 AM

Weipa: 1044 AM