Communities across Far North Queensland experienced the full force of Category Five Tropical Cyclone Yasi Wednesday night as it reached landfall.

People in a number of towns and cities braced themselves for one of the most devastating cyclones ever witnessed in Australia.

Electricity is out in many communities, with power lines brought down by winds. It will stay off at least until the storm has passed and it is safe for workers to go out and inspect the damage.

The office of Attorney-General Robert McClelland said this is likely to be a catastrophic event.

“The thoughts and prayers of all Australians are with the people of Far North Queensland tonight.”

“It’s absolutely devastating to see Queenslanders having to cope with such a severe disaster just weeks after the worst floods in the state’s history.”

Premier Anna Bligh said thousands will be homeless after Yasi made landfall at about midnight local time (1am AEDT) at Mission Beach, but was felt from Cairns to Townsville.

The government said it is monitoring the situation through the Crisis Coordination Centre and will continue to provide all necessary assistance through the Australian Defence Force and other means to support Queensland through this emergency and recovery.