Cyclone Debbie: Australia activates disaster response plan please log in to view this image Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull has activated a disaster response plan after a powerful cyclone pummelled the north-east coast. Cyclone Debbie caused major damage, torrential rain and power cuts to tens of thousands of homes. Defence force helicopters and naval vessels carrying aid are to be despatched to Queensland. Mr Turnbull said one death had been confirmed but added that emergency crews had yet to assess the damage. Cyclone Debbie made landfall between Bowen and Airlie Beach as a category four storm, whipping gusts of up to 263km/h (163mph). It is moving inland as a category two storm but could cause more damage. In pictures: Debbie makes landfall Battered cockatoo and other tales of the storm "Conditions have deteriorated rapidly," Mr Turnbull told parliament. "Take care and stay safe. Be prepared to shelter in place until Wednesday." He said the government would be urging insurance companies to be "compassionate" and supportive of people who had claims to make following the cyclone. 'Battering ram effect' The extent of Cyclone Debbie's devastation, which has a 50km-diameter eye wall, may not be known for some time, the authorities said. Queensland Police Commissioner Ian Stewart said the storm's slow speed had created a "battering ram effect", adding: "We are going to get lots of reports of damage, and sadly I think we will also receive reports of injuries, if not death." Mr Stewart said the weather had contributed to the death of a woman in a car crash on Monday. One man was seriously injured when a wall collapsed in the town of Proserpine. Aussie, give us a wave mate, let us know your OK Bro
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