Severe Cyclone Lam is bearing down on Elcho Island, and residents of Elcho Island and Milingimbi have been advised to take cover now.

The Bureau of Meteorology has advised that gale force winds can be expected in the communities this afternoon, with very destructive winds expected this evening.

Regional Controller, Commander Bruce Porter said it is important that all residents seek immediate shelter.

“If you have not made a decision to stay at home or with friends, you should immediately proceed to one of the public shelters in your community.”

Public shelters are located at:

Galiwinku

- Shepherdson College

- Marthakal Workshop

- Shire Office

- Aged Care Centre

- Child Care Centre.

Milingimbi

- Milingimbi shelter.

“Residents staying at home are urged to ensure they have ample supplies of water stored. It is expected that power to the communities will be cut during the cyclone, which will affect the supply of water. Please ensure you fill your bathtubs and clean storage containers with water. After services are restored, as a precaution please boil your water and let it cool before drinking,” Commander Porter said.

“For residents in Gapuwiyak and Ramingining, now is the time to make final preparations to shelter. You SHOULD PROCEED to your identified shelter.”

At 12.30pm, Severe Tropical Cyclone Lam was located 55 kilometres north northeast of Elcho Island and 130 kilometres west northwest of Nhulunbuy  and traveling southwest at eight kilometres per hour.

Public shelters in Nhulunbuy remain open and residents may access these if unsure about their present accommodation.

“A cyclone warning now exists from Goulburn Island to Numbulwar, including Nhulunbuy, Groote Eylandt and adjacent inland areas to Bulman,” said Commander Porter.

“A cyclone watch extends from Numbulwar to Port Roper and adjacent inland areas.

“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