Expected cyclone yet to form in NT

While a forecast tropical cyclone has not arrived, Top End residents have been warned that threats posed by dangerous weather remain.

Tropical Cyclone Claudia had been expected to develop overnight as it intensified from a tropical low, with remote coastal Arnhem Land communities expected to bear the brunt of damaging weather.

Heavy rain, flash floods and strong winds hit communities including Warruwi, Ramingining and Maningrida, but no injuries or significant property damage have been reported, NT Police Assistant Commissioner Michael Hebb said.

The tropical low had moved towards land quicker than expected, and before forming a cyclone. It was over land on Thursday and brought heavy rain and winds to numerous remote indigenous communities.

The low could still form a cyclone affecting Darwin if it moves back over water in the Van Diemen Gulf, Bureau of Meteorology acting NT manager Jude Scott said.

"There are still two areas in the cyclone watch zone: Tiwi Islands and the north west coast of the Top End and that includes the Darwin area," she told reporters.

"There is still a possibility we may see some gale force winds impacting and that will be from some time during the day on Friday around lunchtime for a period of around 24 hours.

"We can expect to see rainfall totals in the region of between 100-200mm as well as significant gusty conditions as well."

Regardless, Greater Darwin is expected to receive heavy winds, rain and even flash flooding from Friday lunchtime to Saturday morning after a historically dry wet and cyclone season so far.

"Whilst it is not a cyclone it can still provide heavy rain and strong damaging winds, look at your yards and if you have got things lying around secure them whether at home or work," Mr Hebb said.

"Look at your cyclone kit, there could be power outages."

The Northern Territory Emergency Service has advised people not to drive into water on roads or go out in boats unnecessarily.

NTES also advised people to monitor emergency websites and news.