Tropical Cyclone Narelle hits far north Queensland as ‘high-end’ category four storm

Authorities warn of strong winds, heavy rain, flooding and coastal storm surge

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Severe Tropical Cyclone Narelle had made landfall in far north Queensland as a “high-end” category four system, posing a severe threat to several remote communities.

Speaking to reporters at 7.40am AEST (8.40am AEDT), Bureau of Meteorology senior forecaster Matthew Callopy said Narelle was crossing the Cape York coast “as we speak” and that sheltering residents could expect forecast winds of over 250km/h