Red alert as tropical cyclone strikes Pilbara

Residents were hunkering down as an intensifying Tropical Cyclone Christine crossed into Western Australia. Photo / JMA

Residents took shelter as Tropical Cyclone Christine approached Western Australia's Pilbara coast bringing destructive storms to the region.

A red alert has been issued for people in or near coastal areas between Pardoo and Mardie, including Port Hedland, South Hedland, Whim Creek, Roebourne, Point Samson, Wickham, Karratha and Dampier.

The Department for Child Protection and Family Support has set up a relocation point at the JD Hardie Centre in South Hedland, where about 85 people have sought shelter.

A yellow alert is current for people in inland areas, including Marble Bar, Tom Price, Paraburdoo and Pannawonica.

Authorities say there is a possible threat to lives and homes.

A blue alert remains for people in or near coastal areas between Bidyadanga and Pardoo, and between Mardie and Onslow, and the inland area from Marble Bar to Newman.

Cyclone Christine will continue to intensify and was expected to cross the coast between Karratha and Port Hedland today, the Bureau of Meteorology says.

- AAP