The storm is approaching as a Category 2, and it’s expected to hit the massive area between Broome and Kuri Bay as a Category 1 this afternoon.

Damaging wind gusts are expected to lash Beagle Bay, Derby, Cape Leveque, and Cockatoo Island.

Broome is not in the current path of Errol, however, residents in nearby Beagle Bay will experience damaging winds by this afternoon as the storm shifts southwards of its current position.

Winds could reach up to 130km an hour.

The Bureau of Meteorology’s 6am AWST update says the cyclone’s position is 295km north-west of Broome and 305km west of Cockatoo Island.

Errol is moving southeast at 14km an hour. 

It’s forecast to weaken below tropical strength as it crosses the west Kimberley Coast by this evening – most likely over Cape Leveque and Cockatoo Island, the weather bureau said.

Heavy rainfall is also expected today, which will persist into Saturday morning.

Emergency services are urging residents to keep up to date with the cyclone’s path as it edges closer to the coastline.