Original Source
Tropical Cyclone Narelle to Make Landfall as Category 5 in Queensland
Queensland on High Alert for Cyclone Narelle
Queensland State Disaster Coordinator Chris Stream stated that Far North Queensland has not experienced a cyclone of this intensity for some time. He emphasized that the potential for loss of life from the estimated Category 5 crossing should not be underestimated. Although Queenslanders in the far north are accustomed to extreme weather events, the magnitude of this system warrants meticulous preparation.
Predicted Path and Intensification of the Cyclone
Queensland Premier David Crisafulli confirmed that Tropical Cyclone Narelle has formed and the Bureau of Meteorology will soon upgrade it to a tropical cyclone warning. He noted that it is a large system that should be taken seriously. The watch exists from Lockhart River to Port Douglas, extending inland to the western side of the Cape Peninsula.
Sue Oates from the Bureau of Meteorology explained that Narelle is expected to continue intensifying over the next couple of days, likely becoming a severe tropical cyclone (Category 3) by Thursday afternoon. Further intensification is anticipated through Thursday and into Friday morning, with a Category 5 system likely off the North Queensland coast by Friday morning.
*Source: YouTube: ABC Australia (2026-03-18)*
