SYDNEY, March 20, 2026 (BSS/AFP) - A tropical cyclone lashed Australia's northern tip on Friday, hitting remote coastal towns with the strongest winds seen for a "long, long time", authorities said. Severe Tropical Cyclone Narelle made landfall at the northern point of Queensland state, battering the coast with strong winds, driving rain and pounding surf. "In many cases it will be the strongest wind people have experienced in this part of the state for a long, long time," Queensland Premier David Crisafulli said. The cyclone hit land as a category four storm system -- the second strongest classification -- but was soon downgraded to a category three. "Residents should prepare for heavy rain, strong winds and possible flash flooding.

Source: Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha March 20, 2026 05:19 UTC