Severe Tropical Cyclone Narelle is set to whip up dangerous surf along the Queensland coast this weekend, with Surf Life Saving Queensland warning that conditions around Townsville will be among the most hazardous. Although the cyclone is crossing much further north, its reach is already pushing bigger swells, stronger currents and unpredictable rips down the coast.
SLSQ says the stretch between Port Douglas and Townsville will feel the brunt of the roughest conditions, with tidal surges and rapidly shifting seas likely as Narelle continues to influence the region. Locals are being urged to stick to patrolled beaches, stay between the flags and avoid the water if conditions look unsafe.
Authorities are reminding anyone planning a beach trip to check weather and road updates, with conditions expected to change quickly. Surf lifesavers and emergency services will be monitoring the coastline closely over the coming days as the system continues to generate hazardous surf across North Queensland.
