Cyclone Nathan forecast to further intensify before crossing the coast

19/03/2015

Severe Tropical Cyclone Nathan is forecast to cross the far north Queensland coast near Cape Flattery early Friday morning, as a Category 4 system.

As a Category 4 system, wind gusts of up to 260km/h can be expected near the centre of the cyclone.

The Bureau of Meteorology has issued warnings for coastal and island communities between Port Douglas and Lockhart River, including Cape Tribulation, Cooktown Cape Flattery and Cape Melville. Inland communities at Laura, Palmerville and Coen are also in the Warning Zone.

Queensland Regional Director Rob Webb said residents in the Watch and Warning Zones need to immediately commence their preparations for this severe cyclone.

"Not all residents will receive Category 4 or Category 3 strength winds, but if you are in the Watch or Warning Zone it's important to continue or commence your preparations now if you have not already started. This includes using daylight hours to secure boats and property.

"The Bureau will be issuing regular updates to keep the community informed as the final track and intensity unfold," said Mr Webb.

Widespread 24 hour rainfall totals of between 250 and 350mm are possible on the coast and nearby inland areas between Cardwell and Coen on Friday, and may continue for parts of the Peninsula on Saturday.

A Flood Watch has been issued for the Daintree, Mossman, Barron, Mulgrave, Russell, Johnstone, Tully and Murray rivers.

A dangerous storm tide is expected where the cyclone crosses the coast, where tides may rise above the highest tide of the year. Residents in a storm tide inundation zone need to consider staying with family, friends outside the storm tide zone. Listen to emergency authorities for the latest advice.

The latest information points to Tropical Cyclone Nathan picking up speed once it reaches the Gulf of Carpentaria on Saturday. Gales for the northeast Top End coast are expected late Saturday evening, or early Sunday morning.

A degree of uncertainty remains in the likely track and intensity of Nathan in the Gulf of Carpentaria. At this stage it is possible that Nathan could reach Category 2 intensity as it approaches the northeast coast. It is also possible that areas of northeast Arnhem Land recently affected by Severe Tropical Cyclone Lam may also be impacted by Nathan.

The Bureau is using Twitter to distribute updates for the community. Follow us @BOM_Qld and @BOM_NT.

Remember www.bom.gov.au remains the most up-to-date and comprehensive official source of information.

For the latest warning information, including the latest track map go to: www.bom.gov.au/cyclone