Townsville moves to ‘condition yellow’, ahead of possible cyclone

PORT of Townsville acting general manager Dennis Littlewood says the port has moved to ‘condition yellow’ in response to impending cyclonic conditions.

According to the Bureau of Meteorology, a tropical low in the Coral Sea may turn into a cyclone in coming days and the system is expected to bring significant rain and flooding to much of the state.

There is also tropical low in the Gulf of Carpentaria.

The regional harbour master (RHM) closed the Ports of Townsville and Lucinda for shipping movements due to the developing weather conditions from 6pm on Thursday, 8 January 2026 with damaging winds forecast in coming days.

This resulted in the cancellation of cruise ship Noordam (IMO 9230115) which was scheduled to berth in Townsville on Friday 9 January and several other commercial vessels have been postponed.

The ports remain closed to shipping and continue to follow advice from Bureau of Meteorology, Townsville Local Disaster Management Group and the regional harbour master.

Mr Littlewood said the port had moved to ‘condition yellow’ in response to the impending weather.

“The Port of Townsville begins its cyclone readiness on 1 November each year and we are well prepared for whatever the weather might deliver over coming days,” Mr Littlewood said.

“Port of Townsville landside operations remain open and operational, with activities being undertaken to secure landside infrastructure including implementing tie-down plans and minimising cargo on berths and in laydown areas.

“We are continuing to work closely with the Bureau of Meteorology and Maritime Safety Queensland on precautionary measures to ensure the safety of Port staff and workers and minimise damage to critical infrastructure.”

The port is to continue to follow advice from the Bureau of Meteorology, Townsville Local Disaster Management Group and Regional Harbour Master and will reassess the Port shipping status as further information becomes available.