The bureau of meteorology said Tropical Cyclone Kirrily will cross the coast near the tourist town of Townsville tonight, bringing with it wind gusts of up to 165kph.

Intense rain accompanying the cyclone may cause life threatening flash flooding in the storm’s path and those within 100km of coastline north and south of Townsville should shelter in a safe place, the Bureau said.

Queensland premier Steven Miles said today before the storm was upgraded that residents should prepare to be without power for potentially days.

A day earlier he announced 100 extra emergency staff had been sent to the area.

“We’re prepared and ready for the worst, now we wait and hope for the best,” he said at a news conference.

“Our message to Queenslanders is now is the time to make sure you are ready.”

Category 3 storms are two rungs away from the most dangerous and can destroy caravans as well as lay waste to crops and trees.

The latest storm warnings come roughly a month after tropical cyclone Jasper caused widespread damage across the region.

Townsville airport was closed today and public events for the Australia Day holiday tomorrow have been cancelled.