“Catchments in Queensland’s Far North coastal districts and Cape York Peninsula have received significant rainfall in recent days during the passage of the low in a westerly direction.
“Cyclone Owen is already producing very heavy rainfall around the Gulf coast and will bring tropical moisture with it as it tracks overland in Queensland,” he said.
A Flood Watch is already in place for catchments in the Gulf of Carpentaria and southern Cape York Peninsula.
“Following this, some models bring the cyclone overland and down Queensland’s east coast with widespread heavy rain, thunderstorms and strong winds throughout the week and into the weekend.
“This is an evolving situation, with the potential to be a high-impact event so it’s important that the community follow official warnings on the cyclone’s forecast track and associated impacts including flooding, damaging to destructive winds and storm activity.
“With many people travelling during the school holidays, we are urging the public to stay tuned for updated warnings, be aware of local conditions and always follow the advice of local emergency services,” Mr Gunn said.