Tropical Cyclone Narelle Triggers Emergency Evacuations in Northern Territory
An emergency warning has been issued as Tropical Cyclone Narelle approaches the Northern Territory, with forecasts predicting very destructive winds gusting up to 195km/h. The cyclone is expected to make landfall late Saturday, prompting widespread evacuations and preparations for major flooding, particularly in Katherine by Monday.
High-Level Warnings and Safety Instructions
The Northern Territory fire and emergency services commissioner, Andrew Warton, announced the highest-level warning around midday on Saturday, covering areas from Nhulunbuy to Port MacArthur, including Borroloola, Numbulwar, Alyangula, and Gapuwiyak. Residents have been advised to avoid travel and seek shelter in the smallest, strongest rooms of their homes, such as bathrooms or toilets, to protect against the storm's intensity.
Warton emphasized the dangers of venturing outside, stating, "We implore you, wherever you are in the impact of this cyclone, please do not venture outside into the storm. It's dangerous." The Bureau of Meteorology has warned that Narelle will strengthen as it approaches, affecting over 10,000 residents in the region.
Cyclone Path and Impact Forecast
Initially downgraded from a category 4 to a 2 after moving through the Gulf of Carpentaria, Narelle is forecast to hit the eastern Top End as a category 3 cyclone late Saturday. As of 12.30pm NT time, it was moving west at about 20km/h, with landfall expected around 3am. Heavy rainfall between 150mm and 200mm daily is anticipated, with potential peaks of up to 300mm, leading to flash flooding and major river rises.
Rainfall is projected to peak on Sunday and Monday, with significant flooding expected for the Katherine River, Daly River, Waterhouse, and Adelaide River catchments. This follows recent flooding events, adding to the community's challenges.
Evacuation Efforts and Support Measures
On the Gulf of Carpentaria coast, the Australian Defence Force has evacuated nearly 150 people from Numbulwar, with hundreds more scheduled for evacuation as Narelle nears. In Darwin, approximately 500 Numbulwar residents have taken refuge in Nightcliff High School's gym, which has been converted into an evacuation centre.
Federal emergency management minister Kristy McBain confirmed that Defence has embedded an air liaison officer in the NT emergency operating centre. Additionally, the National Critical Care and Trauma Centre has deployed a team to Katherine, including a field hospital if needed. The Australian government disaster recovery payment has been activated for affected areas in Queensland and the NT, with payments available from Tuesday.
Community Preparations and Concerns
In Katherine, 4,000 sandbags and 110 tonnes of sand have been distributed in anticipation of rising rivers and flash flooding. NT chief minister Lia Finocchiaro stated, "We are expecting moderate to major flood levels in Katherine come Monday," noting that the community is still recovering from last week's floods.
Katherine mayor Joanna Holden expressed concerns about volunteer fatigue, as residents face the possibility of re-cleaning properties that flooded earlier this month. Meanwhile, Matthew Ryan, chair of the Northern Land Council, raised issues about evacuation centre conditions, citing reports of inadequate food and bedding, and called for better preparedness in future events.
Queensland Clean-Up and Regional Impact
In far north Queensland, clean-up operations began on Saturday with no reported casualties, though structural damage and fallen trees were common. Queensland premier David Crisafulli described the situation as a "blessing" due to the lack of continued rain, but noted ongoing power outages affecting about 1,100 people and concerns over high tides and waves.
Crisafulli highlighted that Narelle passed between populated centres, minimizing direct impact, but authorities are monitoring rivers and conducting damage assessments with emergency helicopters. The Queensland government is providing 10 storm pods to assist NT recovery efforts, and decisions on school reopenings will be made by Sunday evening.
Narelle is expected to track over the Northern Kimberley and move offshore to the Indian Ocean from Tuesday, as communities continue to brace for its effects.
