Severe Tropical Cyclone Lam has moved inland and is a category 3 system.

Overnight, communities at Elcho Island, Milingimbi, Galiwinku, Maningrida and Ramingining were in the storm’s direct path.

Police have re-established contact with local incident controllers and there have been no reports received of major injuries or fatalities.

Reports are still coming in about the extent of damage sustained in the region, however there are initial reports of  widespread damage at Galiwinku.

Commander Bruce Porter said that it is important residents remain indoors until the all-clear is given.

“Local police are the incident controllers, and they will be assessing the conditions on the ground before the all-clear is given,” Commander Porter said.

Cyclone warnings remain in place from Goulburn Island to Port Roper, including Nhulunbuy, Groote Eylandt and adjacent inland areas to Bulman.

At 8am the cyclone was 70 kilometres south southwest of Milingimbi and 120 kilometres southwest of Galiwinku, travelling south southwest at 12 kilometres per hour.

Severe Tropical Cyclone Lam crossed the mainland coast mid-way between Milingimbi and Elcho Island at 2am this morning as a category 4 system.

Residents in Bulman, Groote Eylandt, Port Roper and Numbulwar are advised that now is the time to make final preparations to shelter.

“Tune in to your local radio and/or television stations for further information and warnings.”

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

For the latest Bureau of Meteorology Advice go to www.bom.gov.au