NASA images reveal true size of Cyclone Debbie from space

Cyclone Debbie's size and intensity has been captured by NASA’s Earth Observatory as it approaches the north Queensland coast.

Images from the international space station show the view from the heavens, revealing the superstorm as it approaches the Townsville and Ayr areas.

It was upgraded to a category 4 cyclone on Monday night.

The eye of the cyclone passed over the Whitsunday Islands on Tuesday morning with wind gusts on Hamilton Island reaching 222km/h.

• Get ready for Debbie: Residents told to stay put as worst cyclone in six years threatens Queensland

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Premier Palaszczuk said Queensland’s worst cyclone in six years is expected to make landfall near Bowen about 12.50pm today (local time).

Those in Debbie’s path have been told to stay put, stay calm and wait for the all-clear.

People have been urged to remain in secure shelters - above the expected water level - while the very destructive winds continue.

Emergency services won't be able to respond till the all-clear has been given.