A slow-moving tropical low in the Arafura Sea north of the Tiwi Islands may develop into a tropical cyclone later today.

A cyclone WARNING continues from Croker Island to Cape Fourcroy, including the Tiwi Islands.

A cyclone WATCH remains in place from Point Stuart to Mitchell Plateau, including Darwin.

Residents on the Tiwi Islands are continuing to prepare for a cyclone and are staying indoors. Roads remain open for essential travel, and licensed premises will be closed today.

Ferry services are operating as scheduled, however Commander Brent Warren asks that recreational boaters reconsider any plans to head out onto the water today and tomorrow.

“Conditions can deteriorate quickly and we ask the public not to put themselves in danger.”

Communities along the western Northern Territory coast are also preparing for severe weather as the low is expected to continue on a southwest track.

Cyclones and severe weather are a part of life in the Top End, and residents should have their personal and business emergency preparations in place.

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

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