Tropical Cyclone Narelle has been downgraded to a tropical low as it moves across the Northern Territory towards Western Australia.

Very destructive winds gusting up to 195km/h are forecasted with the storm expected to intensify before it makes landfall again

The Northern Territory is preparing for strong gusts and drenching rain as ex-Tropical Cyclone Narelle moves further into the Top End.

Three military aircraft were part of the operation to evacuate hundreds of Numbulwar residents to Darwin ahead of then Category 3 Tropical Cyclone Narelle.

The cyclone is expected to make landfall in Far North Queensland on Friday, March 20, before tracking westward toward the eastern Northern Territory over the weekend.