A Tropical Cyclone Advice is now active for coastal communities in the Gulf of Carpentaria, from Alyangula to the Queensland border.
The monsoon trough is strengthening, with a low embedded in the trough moving over water and deepening on the weekend.
Incident Controller, Superintendent Daniel Shean said: “Local controllers in the region have activated their emergency plans.
“People living and working in these areas are advised that now is the time to make sure your cyclone plans are finalised. Your emergency kits should be stocked and ready. You should determine now, where you and your family will take shelter if required to do so.
“Heavy rains and flash flooding can be expected so we urge the community to use all safety precautions and do not attempt to cross any flooded roads or crossings.”
A Flood Watch is current for the Top End. And a severe weather warning is in place for Arnhem coastal communities.
“Conditions across the eastern Top End will be hazardous this weekend. We encourage everyone to rethink unnecessary travel and avoid unnecessary risks.”
The Northern Territory Emergency Service advises that people should:
secure loose outside objects and seek shelter when conditions deterioratepull over if it is raining heavily and you cannot see, park with your hazard lights on until the rain clearsavoid driving into water of unknown depth and currentcreate your own sandbags if there is flooding, by using pillow cases or shopping bags filled with sand and place them around doorways to protect your homestay away from flooded drains, rivers, streams and waterwaysensure pets and animals are safebe prepared in case of power outages, have an emergency kit with a radio, torch, spare batteries and first aid kit.
A call centre has been set up for affected residents or travellers seeking information. Call 1800 888 901 between 7am-7pm. Outside these hours please visit securent.nt.gov.au or attend your local police station.
