Powerful Twin Storms to Hit Northern Australia

The Bureau of Meteorology warned that twin cyclones will hit Northern Australia and are rapidly intensifying and could cause heavy flooding.

Two strong cyclones, named the "cyclone sandwich" by locals, are expected to hit remote areas of northern Australia early Friday, about 2,500 kilometers (1,500 miles) apart.

Cyclone Lam was heading for the remote parts of the Northern Territory, while the more powerful Cyclone Marcia was expected to hit the eastern coast of Queensland state a few hours later with wind gusts up to 295 kilometers (180 miles) an hour.

Officials urged residents to leave the coastal areas or take shelter in anticipation of heavy rains, fierce winds and possible flooding.