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Tropical Cyclone Narelle Hits Queensland, Evacuation Warnings Issued

3/21/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Severe Tropical Cyclone Narelle made landfall in far north Queensland on 20 March 2026 as a high-end category 4 storm with winds of 195 km/h.
The cyclone threatened communities, especially Coen, where residents reported roofs lost and trees downed.
Climate experts said rising sea surface temperatures linked to climate change likely intensified Narelle.
Emergency warnings were issued for several areas.
A second landfall is anticipated over the Gulf of Carpentaria.

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Story summary

Severe Tropical Cyclone Narelle made landfall in far north Queensland on 20 March 2026 as a high-end category 4 storm with winds of 195 km/h.
The cyclone threatened communities, especially Coen, where residents reported roofs lost and trees downed.
Climate experts said rising sea surface temperatures linked to climate change likely intensified Narelle.
Emergency warnings were issued for several areas.
A second landfall is anticipated over the Gulf of Carpentaria.