Tropical Cyclone Sean has intensified to a category three storm off the northern coast of Western Australia, with authorities urging residents to shelter immediately as there is a threat to lives.

The Bureau of Meteorology issued the upgraded alert for the Pilbara this morning, warning that the cyclone will impact the region’s western coast between Mardie to Ningaloo today.

The area is under a flood warning due to intense rainfall and destructive winds.

The storm is brewing winds of up to 130km/h and strengthening as it moves west, parallel to the Pilbara coast, at 17km/h today.

Once it is west of the Pilbara later today, it will turn to the south-west and move away from the coast.

The WA Department of Fire and Emergency Services has issued an emergency warning, urging residents from Thevernard Island to Ningaloo, including Exmouth and North West Cape, to shelter indoors immediately as it is too late to leave.

“There is a threat to lives and homes. You are in danger and need to act immediately,” the warning read. 

Barrow Island and Mardie to Ningaloo, not including Mardia and Ningaloo, are under a cyclone watch and act warning.

Whim Creek to Mardie is under a cyclone advice stay informed warning.

As the storm moves westwards, a storm tide is forecast between Onslow and Exmouth during this afternoon’s high tide.

The large waves could cause minor flooding along the foreshore and nearby residents are urged to take precautions to protect their property.

While much of the state is under weather warnings, north-east of Perth in Meckering recorded a 3.8 magnitude earthquake about 3.10pm yesterday.

More than 400 residents around the area reported feeling tremors, according to Geoscience Australia.