Port Douglas’s Four Mile Beach and Mossman Gorge have been closed to the public as a slow-moving tropical low gradually works its way towards the Far North Queensland coast.

The likelihood of the system turning into a Category One Tropical Cyclone has increased due to the slower-than-expected movement, according to the Bureau of Meteorology, and it is now likely to hit the coast south of Cairns on Saturday night as Tropical Cyclone Koji.

Wind gusts of up to about 100km are expected across a wide-ranging area from Port Douglas through to Airlie Beach, while heavy rains are expected to begin later today or early tomorrow and continue for days.

Four Mile Beach has been closed due to the likelihood of dangerous stinger jellyfish in the water, with the stinger net removed by lifeguards until further notice due to the weather.

The ocean water is currently lapping up close to the treeline, so walking along the beach should also be done with extreme caution.

Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre staff issued a statement this morning about the closure of that popular tourist attraction.

“Due to current and forecast weather conditions, and in line with the closure of the National Park, Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre has closed temporarily,” they stated. 

“The safety of our visitors, staff, and the Mossman community is our highest priority, and this decision has been made with that in mind.

“We will continue to monitor conditions closely and will share updates as soon as it is safe for us to reopen.”

Douglas Shire residents are being urged to prepare now for strong winds and heavy rain, with free sand for sandbags available at a variety of locations including Port Douglas Sports Complex and Wonga Beach Fire Brigade shed.