Tropical Cyclone Narelle Threatens Eastern Top End with Very Destructive Winds

Alert Details

The Australian Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued a Tropical Cyclone Warning for Tropical Cyclone Narelle (34U). The system is currently a Category 2 cyclone and is expected to intensify as it approaches the coast.

Affected Areas

The warning zone covers the region from Nhulunbuy to Port McArthur. Specific communities included in the alert are:

• Borroloola, Numbulwar, Alyangula, and Gapuwiyak.
• Western extensions including Ramingining, Bulman, and Ngukurr.
• Groote Eylandt and coastal areas between Birany Birany and Numbulwar.

Expected Conditions

As of 9:30 am ACST, Tropical Cyclone Narelle is moving west at 19 kilometres per hour with sustained winds near the centre of 110 kilometres per hour and gusts to 155 kilometres per hour.

• Very Destructive Winds: Gusts up to 185 km/h are forecast to develop in coastal areas between Birany Birany and Numbulwar, including Groote Eylandt, this evening and overnight.
• Destructive Wind Gusts: Gusts up to 160 km/h are expected to develop this afternoon, potentially extending from Nhulunbuy to Nathan River by Sunday morning.
• Gales: Damaging wind gusts are expected within the warning zone as the system approaches.

Timeline

• Saturday, March 21: Narelle will impact the eastern Top End later today. Destructive winds are expected to begin this afternoon.
• Overnight Saturday/Early Sunday: The cyclone is forecast to cross the coast between Birany Birany and Numbulwar.
• Sunday and Monday: The system is expected to weaken as it moves inland across the Top End.

What You Should Do

Residents in the Community Threat Warning Zone should prepare for gale-force winds within the next 24 hours. Due to the uncertainty in tropical cyclone forecasting, residents should be aware that hazardous winds may extend to regions outside the immediate forecast track. Mariners are advised to read specific coastal waters and high seas warnings. Monitor local updates as the situation develops.