The latest advice from the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) is that the Cyclone Watch declared for the Darwin region, has now been upgraded to a Cyclone WARNING.

The information from BoM suggests Tropical Cyclone Marcus is expected to cause gale force winds in the Greater Darwin region, including Palmerston within the next 24 hours.

City of Palmerston Official Manager Mark Blackburn said, “Now is the time for residents to prepare themselves, their pets and their home and know where you will shelter if you do not feel safe in your own home”.

There are public emergency shelters available for residents who feel unsafe in their own homes. Please familiarise the location of the public shelters by visiting www.securent.gov.au/prepare-for-an-emergency/shelter-locations. Do not attend shelters until directed to do so via public announcements.

All Council facilities, building and waste services will close until further notice as of close of business today, including:

• City of Palmerston Council Office 
• City of Palmerston Library
• Palmerston Recreation Centre
• Palmerston Swimming & Fitness Centre
• Community Halls and Centres
• Archer Recycling Centre & Waste Transfer Station
• Public amenities

There will be no waste collection services on Saturday 17 March. If time does not permit residents to take last minute items to the transfer station, we ask that all items in yards are stowed away or securely tied down. Loose items in the event of a cyclone will cause injury and damage.

If you require assistance for storm related emergencies, please call the NT Emergency Services assistance line on 132 500. For other emergencies call 000.

The City of Palmerston is continuing to monitor the situation and further advice will be issued as soon as it becomes available.

For latest warning advice and information please visit www.bom.gov.au or www.securent.gov.au