R𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝗽𝗿𝗲𝗽𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝘀𝗵𝗲𝗹𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗶𝗻 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗲

Residents should prepare now to shelter in place from 4pm today.

The Townsville Local Disaster Coordination Group (TLDMG) is advising residents from Mutarnee to Cungulla to prepare now to take shelter. This warning includes Magnetic Island.

A tropical low is developing slowly as it moves towards the northeast Queensland coast.

The tropical low is forecast to reach tropical cyclone intensity later this evening before crossing the coast near Townsville, most likely early on Sunday. Conditions will be dangerous as it gets closer to land.

Gale strength winds are expected from 4pm.

https://www.bom.gov.au/location/australia/queensland/herbert-and-lower-burdekin/bqld_pt022-townsville

Residents should prepare to shelter in place from 4pm until the TLDMG advises it is safe to leave. This does not include essential and emergency workers.

Find the strongest and safest room in the building you are in. This will be away from big windows. It could be a bathroom, walk-in wardrobe or hallway. Shelter here when the time comes.

TLDMG Chair Nick Dametto said anyone who felt unsafe in their home should relocate now, preferably with friends and family.

“The TLDMG will open places of refuge from 2pm at the 143 Walker Street Car Park and the Heatley Cyclone Shelter,” TLDMG Chair Nick Dametto said.

“Pets can be taken to the 143 Walker Street Car Park Place of Refuge. This place of refuge is accessed through Wills Street. Pets are not allowed at the Heatley Cyclone Shelter.

“If you need to relocate, go to family or friends first. Places of refuge are a last resort.

“If you need to go to a place of refuge, take your emergency kit with you.”

For non-life threatening emergencies, call the SES on 132 500. For life-threatening emergencies call triple-0.

To stay up to date visit the Emergency Management and Disaster Dashboard (https://disaster.townsville.qld.gov.au/), follow this Facebook page or listen to local radio.