The first cyclone of the season is expected to intensify as it approaches northern Australia, prompting a warning for Top End residents to prepare for destructive winds.

Tropical Cyclone Fina weakened to a category one system overnight but is expected to restrengthen as it moves toward the Northern Territory.

Darwin has been placed in a “warning zone” amid fears the system could intensify into a destructive category three system later on Friday.

Locals have stocked up on supplies as they brace for winds that could damage houses and vehicles, fell trees and cut power while “throwing around the outdoor furniture”.

Early on Friday, Cyclone Fina had sustained winds near its centre of 75km/h, with gusts up to 100km/h, and was about 335 kilometres north-east of Darwin, moving slowly.

The sy

See Full Page