Cyclone Marcus hits Darwin

DARWIN: Darwin has been battered by heavy rain and 130km/h winds as Tropical Cyclone Marcus swept through the city, downing trees and power lines and shutting off parts of the local water supply, Express reported.

Emergency services are urging residents to remain indoors and out of danger until they secure the city, as the now category two storm heads southwest. Several live power lines are down, according to NT Police and Emergency Services after the storm passed over the city just before midday on Saturday.

Trees were also brought down throughout the Greater Darwin region by the high-speed winds, and some are yet to be cleared.

Regional Controller Warren Jackson said in a statement: “It’s only been several hours since the cyclone passed “Many hazards are present and public safety is our priority.”

He added: “While assessments of damage are undertaken, it is safest for community members to stay home.”

NT Emergency Services crews have started responding to over 400 calls for help in the aftermath of the cyclone.

Crews have placed clearing debris around the airport and Royal Darwin hospital as priority. Mr Jackson said: “Don’t take unnecessary risks - only travel if it is absolutely required.”

Shelters were opened across the city and emergency services told residents to stay inside until the storm had passed.

The NT regional controller pointed to the damage visible across the city and warned of the potential consequences of stronger cyclones.

Saturday’s storm also affected Darwin’s water supply. Residents have been advised to boil drinking water until advised otherwise.