Cyclone Narelle Hits Australia's Northeast Coast with Fierce Winds and Heavy Rain

Severe Tropical Cyclone Narelle battered the northeast coast of Australia on Friday, delivering destructive winds, torrential rain, and power outages. Authorities advised residents to stay indoors for safety.

The cyclone made landfall in remote Far North Queensland as a category four storm, close to its peak intensity, with winds reaching speeds of 195 kph (120 mph). It later weakened but continued to impact the region significantly, according to the Bureau of Meteorology.

In response to the storm, rescue teams and essential services were on standby for immediate recovery efforts. Notably, Rio Tinto halted operations at its northern Queensland bauxite mines and implemented cyclone response plans to ensure safety and security.