Category 2 Cyclone Marcus leaves thousands without power across Australia's north

A Category 2 cyclone has battered the northern part of Australia, with winds up to 130kph wreaking havoc on rural infrastructure.

Cyclone Marcus has brought down trees and power lines leaving tens-of-thousands of people without electricity across the Northern Territory.

In addition to the strong winds, over 200mm of rain was expected.

The city of Darwin has opened up shelters for people who are not safe in their homes.

However, the full brunt of Cyclone Marcus was expected to have passed by late yesterday evening.