Cyclone Marcus: What you need to know at a glance
Updated
Tropical Cyclone Marcus was upgraded to a category two system before it began passing over Darwin.
Here's what you need to know.
When was it due to hit and what should we expect?
About 10:30am (local time), the Bureau of Meteorology said the cyclone was moving across Darwin.
BOM said there were sustained winds of 95 kilometres an hour near the centre, and the storm was also causing wind gusts of more than 130 kilometres an hour.
Authorities had warned of damaging waves, heavy rain and possible localised flooding.
They said gale-force winds would intensify throughout the day and probably into the evening. Trees have come down and some properties have lost power.
When the cyclone passes over Darwin, authorities said there would be a lull in the weather, but the public should remain in shelter as winds will return at "intensity levels".
"It is not over. You will get the winds coming back," chief officer of Northern Territory Emergency Services Jason Collins said.
What's the advice from authorities in Darwin?
NT Police Regional Controller Warren Jackson gave this advice:
"We're telling everybody they need to be in shelter, out of the weather, off the roads."
He said authorities would provide advice when they believe it's safe to travel.
"Stay inside, don't risk your life," Mr Jackson said.
Residents have been told to activate their household plans to ensure their family and friends stay safe. Businesses have also been urged to reconsider opening.
Risks will also remain after the wind has died down.
"After the storm and after the cyclone, please stay away from waterways and stay away from the beaches," Mr Collins said.
He said residents should also be aware of fallen power lines and other debris.
Emergency services will only be responding to life-threatening situations during the cyclone. Crews won't be able to respond to power outages until it's safe.
Where are the shelters?
There are 11 shelters open and you can find out their locations at the SecureNT website.
Mr Jackson said people who don't believe their current accommodation is safe they should make their way there.
"They need to be cautious about how they will get to shelters now, given the type of weather that we are experiencing," he said.
What's the best way to keep up to date?
The Darwin Tropical Cyclone Warning Centre is issuing hourly updates on the cyclone as it hits Darwin. These can be found on the Bureau of Meteorology's website.
Topics: cyclones, cyclone, weather, disasters-and-accidents, darwin-0800
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