NT communities along the Gulf of Carpentaria and inland across the Top End are being urged to prepare for the potential impacts of Tropical Cyclone Narelle, which is currently in the Coral Sea off Queensland and could make landfall in the NT by the weekend affecting inland and coastal areas south of Darwin.

Authorities are warning that a Cyclone Watch could be issued later this week as the system continues to track west. Residents are advised to take precautionary measures now in anticipation of adverse weather conditions in the coming days.

NT Incident Controller Kirsten Engels issued a warning about the potential for the situation to escalate quickly, as much of the Territory remains saturated from recent unprecedented flooding.

“Conditions across the Territory mean we are particularly vulnerable right now,” she said. “With the ground already saturated, it won’t take much rainfall to trigger further flooding.

“Tropical Cyclone Narelle is developing, and there is a real risk of further impacts. People in at-risk areas, including coastal and remote communities, should not wait — now is the time to prepare.”

With river systems in the Daly, Roper, and Katherine catchments still elevated, the risk of flooding is increased. Even moderate rainfall could lead to swift rises in river levels and the possibility of renewed flooding, authorities warned.

Coastal areas stretching from Nhulunbuy to the Queensland border, such as Alyangula, Ngukurr, are expected to be affected.

Communities located inland, extending from the Gulf of Carpentaria to the Joseph Bonaparte Gulf in Western Australia, might also experience impacts, including Katherine which is still recovering from last week’s flood.

Residents are advised to brace for strong winds, heavy rainfall, and potential flooding.

Police Commissioner Martin Dole said on Tuesday that the NT’s emergency operation centre has not closed and is still active ahead of this weekend’s anticipated heavy rains.

“Planning and preparation is occurring right across the Top End of the Northern Territory, with all of the local emergency committees stood up across the Top End in preparation…of potential impact,” he said. “But this is unpredictable and we don’t know where it’s going to land.”

Ms Engels said that after this weather system has moved inland, it may lead to renewed and prolonged riverine flooding, as well as flash flooding that could result in road closures.

Additionally, remote communities may be isolated due to these adverse conditions.

Ms Engels said residents should familiarise themselves with their emergency plans and identify where they would seek shelter if needed.

It is also important to restock emergency kits to provide support for at least three days. Essential items such as water, non-perishable food, medications, important documents, supplies for babies and pets, and bedding should be included, she said.

Residents should also have a battery-powered radio and a first-aid kit on hand, secure any loose outdoor items, and clear their gutters and drains to prevent blockages. Everyone should also prepare for the possibility of isolation by ensuring they have sufficient fuel, food, and communication resources.

“We know this has been a difficult time for many Territorians who are still recovering. However, we need people to act now and be ready for further impacts,” Ms Engels said.

Cyclone Narelle developed on Tuesday evening to the south of the Solomon Islands and is currently moving towards the far north coast of Queensland.

According to the Bureau of Meteorology, there is a 90 per cent chance that the storm will continue westward, making landfall likely near Coen in far north Queensland by Friday.

The Bureau estimates that wind gusts could reach 200-250 km/h at that time, with the most intense winds concentrated around the storm’s eye and further destructive winds extending outward from this core.

NT residents are encouraged to stay informed by monitoring several resources for the latest updates through the Bureau of Meteorology website or app, the SecureNT website and on Facebook.