A Tropical Cyclone Warning remains in place for coastal and island communities between Croker Island to Cape Fourcroy and Point Stuart to Wadeye, including Darwin and Wadeye.

The tropical low remained on its predicted track overnight, and it is expected to intensify into a Category 1 cyclone this morning after it passes the Tiwi Islands. Tiwi Islands residents should remain indoors as weather deteriorates.

“The islands began to experience squally weather overnight, and we can expect similar in Darwin this afternoon,” Regional Controller Commander Brent Warren said.

“There is a significant risk of flash flooding in the greater Darwin area today. Motorists are urged to take extra care on the roads and avoid driving into any flooded roadways, creeks and crossings. Please restrict your travel and only take to the roads if necessary once the weather deteriorates.

“Based on advice from the Bureau of Meteorology, the Darwin public transport bus network will shut down at midday today.

“Residents in the Darwin area should be making their final arrangements to take shelter if it becomes necessary.

“Darwin River Dam reached capacity about 8pm last night and the spillway is flowing. Residents in the area are advised to watch and act, moving away from floodwaters as required. There is no public access to the dam.”

Other weather warnings current at this time include a Flood Watch for Northern Coastal Rivers for the Greater Darwin, Darwin Rural area and Cox Peninsula as well as Adelaide River. Marine Wind Warnings are in place for the Beagle Bonaparte Coast, North Tiwi Coast, Van Diemen Gulf, Arafura Coast and Darwin Harbour.

For more information on the tropical low and weather warnings go to the Bureau of Meteorology: http://www.bom.gov.au/nt/warnings/.

Cyclone preparedness information is available at SecureNT: https://securent.nt.gov.au/prepare-for-an-emergency/cyclones