The Bureau of Meteorology has begun its tracking map of a weak tropical low in the Gulf of Carpentaria.
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The low is expected to quickly reach cyclone strength tomorrow night.
Early weather computer models suggested the weather system could track below Katherine in the coming days but experts say it is still too difficult to accurately forecast its movement.
Some popular weather websites like Windy.com are predicting the low will track further south of Katherine than first expected to cross over Elliott.
If the low does reach cyclone strength as expected it will be known as Esther.
The low is currently slow moving, though it is expected to move towards the south-southwest during the weekend.
The low is likely to develop into a tropical cyclone during either Saturday night or Sunday morning.
There are sustained winds near the centre of 35kmh with wind gusts to 85kmh.
The system is expected to be slow moving at first, before adopting a south-southwesterly track towards the southern Gulf coast during Saturday and Sunday.
Tides are expected to be higher than normal between Nhulunbuy and Karumba on Sunday.
In the Northern Territory, NTES advises that people in Nhulunbuy to the NT/QLD border including Groote Eylandt and surrounding areas should consider what action they will take should the cyclone threat increase.
- Check your household plan.
- Listen for the next advice.
- For cyclone safety and preparation advice www.securent.nt.gov.au
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