The destructive core of Tropical Cyclone Nathan has reached the coast between Nhulunbuy and Cape Shield.
Region 2 Regional Controller, Commander Bruce Porter, said that the Bureau of Meteorology advises that a cyclone WARNING is in place from Goulburn Island to Groote Eylandt including Maningrida, Milingimbi, Elcho Island, Gapuwiyak, Nhulunbuy and Groote Eylandt.
A cyclone WATCH is in place from Goulburn Island to Croker Island and Gunbalanya to Goulburn Island.
The centre of Tropical Cyclone Nathan is located just offshore from the northeast Arnhem coast. Cyclone Nathan will continue moving west northwest with the destructive core currently moving onto the coast between Cape Shield and Nhulunbuy.
Cyclone Nathan will continue crossing northeast Arnhem during today then begin to weaken as it moves westward parallel to the Top End north coast during Monday.
The following Public Shelters are open for residents whose homes are not constructed to building code or who are unsure of their present accommodation:
- Nhulunbuy - Gove Hospital and Yirrkala-Laynhapuy Homelands Centre
- Groote Eylandt - Angurugu and Umbakumba
- Milyakburra (Bickerton Island)
- Mapurru School
- Galiwinku (Elcho Island) - Marthakal Workshop and the Dhurkkay Building (School). The Shepherdson College is being used to house the residents displaced from the demobilisation of Camp Elcho.
Communities under WARNING
Commander Porter said that conditions from Groote Eylandt to Nhulunbuy and the community of Gapuwiyak and surrounds ARE NOW AT A DANGEROUS LEVEL, TAKE SHELTER NOW. DO NOT drive or move about outside, you will be advised by the Territory Controller when it is safe to do so.
“Residents from Gapuwiyak to Maningrida, including Elcho Island, are advised that now is the time to make final preparations to your home shelter or identify which public emergency shelter or strong building to use.
“You should now have your emergency kit complete and ready. DO NOT PROCEED TO PUBLIC EMERGENCY SHELTERS UNTIL ADVISED TO DO SO.
“Private Sector businesses and organisations still open at this time are strongly advised to consider securing and closing their premises. Employers are reminded of their Duty of Care to ensure the safety of any employees still at work.
Communities under WATCH
“For those communities under cyclone WATCH, residents from Goulburn Island to Croker Island and Gunbalanya to Goulburn Island, now is the time to put together your emergency kit, clear your yards and commence home shelter preparations. Fill any water containers you may have to ensure that you have at least three litres of water per person per day for at least 72 hours and fill your vehicles' fuel tanks.
“If you do not have accommodation constructed to the building code or are unsure of your present accommodation you should determine NOW where to shelter. This may include arranging to shelter with family, friends, or in public emergency shelters or appropriately strong buildings that are available in your community.
“Please ensure that friends, family and neighbours have heard and understood this message, particularly new arrivals to the area.
“Tune in to your local radio and/or television stations for further information and warnings,” said Commander Porter.
General
Commander Porter said that the Power and Water Corporation advises that building occupants should fill bath tubs and water containers with water before the cyclone arrives. Do not use chemical or fuel containers to store drinking water. After the cyclone has passed as a precautionary measure, it is recommended that tap water used for drinking and oral hygiene be boiled first and allowed to cool.
Power stations in the communities will continue to operate as long as it is safe to do so.
After a cyclone, downed power lines might be live and lethal. Stay away and stay safe.
After a cyclone you should flush toilets with a bucket to reduce the likelihood of blockages.
Further information can be found 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