Local Counter Disaster Planning Committees have met and preparations are well underway in affected coastal communities.

A Cyclone Warning is current for coastal areas from Mitchell Plateau to Point Stuart, including Darwin and the Tiwi Islands.

During today, this system is likely to approach the west coast of the Top End as a tropical low or weak tropical cyclone.

The Territory Controller advises residents of Darwin and Rural Areas that if you DO NOT have accommodation constructed to the Building Code or are unsure of your present accommodation you should decide which public emergency shelter to use.

You should now have your emergency kit complete and ready.

No public shelters are open at this stage and you should not proceed to public emergency shelters until advised to do so.

If the time comes to take shelter, this message will be broadcast through local media and on secureNT.

Check that your friends, family and neighbours have heard and understood the messages, particularly new arrivals or those who may not fully understand English.

Don’t forget about pets – make sure they are included in your cyclone plan.

Further information about how to prepare can be found at www.secureNT.nt.gov.au

Authorities are continuing to monitor the situation.

Everyone should continue to monitor local media and secureNT for updates.