Cyclone Lam has taken a southerly turn overnight and is currently tracking towards the Northern Territory coast near Elcho Island.

The Bureau of Meteorology has advised the cyclone continues to intensify.

The category three storm is expected to continue moving in a south, south west direction towards the community of Galiwinku.

Regional Controller, Commander David Proctor, said cyclone shelters in Galiwinku are now open and residents who do not have accommodation constructed to the building code should proceed to their shelters.

“At 6.00am TC Lam was located approximately 110 kilometres northeast of Elcho Island and was heading in a south, southwest direction at nine kilometres an hour.

“Residents in the community of Warruwi on Goulburn Island are advised that evacuations will begin shortly.

“Arrangements are in place to evacuate an estimated 350 residents and contractors from Warruwi to Darwin.

“A cyclone warning now exists from Goulburn Island to Cape Shield, including Nhulunbuy, Galiwinku and adjacent inland areas.

“A cyclone watch extends from Croker Island to Goulburn Island and Cape Shield to Port Roper, including Groote Eylandt and inland towards Bulman.

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

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