A powerful cyclone has pummelled the north-east Australian coast, causing major damage, torrential rain and power cuts to tens of thousands of homes.
Cyclone Debbie made landfall between Bowen and Airlie Beach in Queensland as a category four storm, whipping gusts of up to 263km/h (163mph). It is moving inland as a category two storm but could cause damage for hours yet. Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull said he was aware of one death so far.
Activating a disaster response plan, he stressed the picture could develop when emergency crews were able to assess the damage.
"Conditions have deteriorated rapidly," he told parliament. "Take care and stay safe. Be prepared to shelter in place until Wednesday."The extent of Cyclone Debbie's devastation, which has a 50km-diameter eye wall, may not be known for some time, the authorities said.
Queensland Police Commissioner Ian Stewart said the storm's slow speed had created a "battering ram effect", adding: "We are going to get lots of reports of damage, and sadly I think we will also receive reports of injuries, if not death."
Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said assessing damage was difficult because communities had been cut off from power and phone reception.
"Everyone is going to be in shock tomorrow, just to see the full impact of this cyclone," she said. "I'm bracing myself for it."