Authorities are worried about the destruction Cyclone Debbie may have caused overnight, with Queensland ready to survey the extent of the damage at first light.

The effects of the cyclone on tourism and local producers are also a key concern.

Early this morning Debbie was downgraded from a cyclone to a tropical low. Heavy rains are still expected as it moves southwest, with a severe weather warning in place.

LISTEN ABOVE: Murray Olds speaks to Mike Hosking