Far north Qld cyclone warning downgraded

Residents in far north Queensland could see heavy rain and gale force winds but the Bureau of Meteorology has downgraded a cyclone warning.

Ex-Tropical Cyclone Ann is heading towards the far north Queensland coast, bringing heavy rain and possible flooding to the region.

The late-season category one cyclone was downgraded to a tropical low on Tuesday afternoon and was some 375 kilometres northeast of Cairns and 275 kilometres northwest of Willis Is about 3pm.

The Bureau of Meteorology says there are likely to be some gales on the southern flank of the system as it reaches the coast on Wednesday.

These may affect the coast and inland areas between Lockhart River and Cooktown, including Lizard Island, on Wednesday.

Rain, which may lead to flash flooding, could develop between Lockhart River and Ingham on Tuesday night and could persist on Wednesday.

A Flood Watch is current for coastal catchments between Cooktown and Ingham.