NORTHERN Queenslanders are battening down the hatches as Cyclone Debbie draws closer to the coast.
The cyclone is expected to intensify to a Category 4 strength before making landfall between Lucinda and the area north of Mackay on Tuesday morning.
The Bureau of Meteorology's Queensland regional director Bruce Gunn compared the size and danger level of Cyclone Debbie to severe Tropical Cyclone Yasi that devastated parts of Queensland in 2011.
"Communities between Lucinda and St Lawrence, including Townsville, Bowen and Mackay, may experience gales in the next 24 hours, with the Whitsundays and surrounding coastal islands among the first areas to be impacted," Mr Gunn said.
"Storm surge is also a risk factor, and if the cyclone crosses the coast around high tide this will enhance these effects.
"People living in coastal or low-lying areas prone to flooding should follow the advice of local emergency services and relocate while there is time."
Mr Gunn said the Cyclone Debbie was likely to maintain its strength for some distance inland towards Charters Towers. Destructive winds and significant rainfall are expected as it tracks to the west-south-west.
Townsville mayor Jenny Hill urged residents to make arrangements to stay at home.
"People need to plan their day so that they are safe with family and friends as early as possible," she said.
"The safest place is your home. If you don't feel safe in your own home, now is the time to arrange to go to family and friends."
A Category 4 system is defined as one that has sustained winds in the range of 160-200kmh, with gusts up to 280kmh. Although the strongest winds are near the core, damaging and very destructive winds can extend several hundred kilometres from the cyclone's centre.
Localised flash flooding is likely and a flood watch is active for coastal catchments between Cardwell and Gladstone and inland to the eastern Gulf Rivers.
Queensland Fire and Emergency Services urges the public to:
- Stay tuned for the latest official forecasts and warnings from the bureau, and follow the advice of local emergency services.
- Discuss your plans for possible relocation with loved ones so everyone knows where you are going and when you expect to be there.
- Pack an evacuation kit containing clothing, valuables, important documents, medications and sleeping gear in case you need to relocate at short notice.
For up to date information visit www.bom.gov.au/cyclone or call the Disaster Co-ordination Centre on 1800-738-541.
