Queensland prepares as Cyclone Debbie gains momentum, bringing flooding rain
It has been a late start to Queensland's cyclone season, but residents between Cairns and Townsville are now on alert.
Forecasters are getting ready to declare a tropical low this weekend, sitting 600 kilometres off the coast, as Cyclone Debbie.
It's expected to reach cyclone strength on Sunday, when gale force winds begin buffeting the coast.
Bureau of Meteorology forecasters predict Monday is the most likely day it will make landfall.
It is expected to cross as a Category 3, bringing flooding rains with it as it moves inland.
Experts say the tropical cyclone watch currently extends from Cape Tribulation, south to Proserpine.
It is sitting about 600 kilometres east of Cairns, or 610 kilometres northeast of Townsville.
Communities who have done it all before will go into preparation mode for the first time this season.
"Our emergency services personnel are probably the best in Australia in terms of preparing for extreme weather events."
Mackay SES Controller Selina Neill advised residents to secure loose objects around the home.
"Have a look around your property, see what's in your yard. Are there any loose objects in your yard? Things that need to be tied down?"
In Mackay, heavy rain has meant no rail deliveries, so supermarket supplies are already low, said IGA's Nick Habgood.
"[Shoppers] go for the long life milks, powdered milks, spaghetti, a lot of the tinned products.
"The sooner you get the stock the better because it will run out."
Just how intense this cyclone will be depends on how long it remains over water.
If it stays over the coral sea until Monday or even Tuesday, it is predicted to be a Category 3 or higher.
It is now a watch and wait situation as locals prepare for Debbie's worst, while hoping for the best.
