Tropical Cyclone Hayley, currently classified as a Category 1 storm, is intensifying as it travels south, approximately 535 kilometers off the mainland coast.

The cyclone is projected to head southeast, potentially bringing it near northern state towns, with forecasts suggesting it could escalate to a Category 2 cyclone by the end of the day.

Winds at the cyclone’s core are clocked at 85 km/h, with gusts reaching up to 120 km/h.

By late Tuesday, wind gusts could intensify to 140 km/h along the coastal areas north of Broome.

The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has also issued warnings for the region, expecting heavy rainfall that could lead to flash floods.

Up to 20mm of rain is expected to fall in Broome, though this could increase depending on how close Cyclone Haley gets to the town itself.

The town of Derby could also be in the eye of the storm, with 35mm of rain expected tomorrow, and 10mm more on Wednesday.

The BOM is urging residents in the warning zone to prepare a plan and to monitor the Emergency WA website for updates.