Residents in coastal areas of the Pilbara region of Western Australia are in lockdown as a category three cyclone approaches.
Cyclone Christine is intensifying and is expected to reach the coast later tonight.
A red alert has been issued amid fears the cyclone could bring a massive storm surge, floods and high winds.
SBS Western Australia correspondent Ryan Emery is in the township of Karratha, which is expected to bear the brunt of the cyclone.
He spoke with Darren Mara a short time ago.
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