Tropical Cyclone Watch Issued for 350km West Australian Coastline

Communities in northern Western Australia are preparing for a possible tropical cyclone that may bring damaging winds, heavy rain, and large waves. A watch has been issued from Cockatoo Island to Bidyadanga as the tropical low moves along the coastline, potentially intensifying. Severe weather is also forecasted for parts of New South Wales and Victoria, with heavy rain already impacting areas in Queensland.

Residents along a 350km stretch of the West Australian coastline are preparing for a potential tropical cyclone that is forecast to bring severe weather conditions, including high winds, heavy rain, and large waves. The Bureau of Meteorology issued a tropical cyclone watch on Sunday, affecting areas from Cockatoo Island to Bidyadanga, inclusive of Broome. The tropical low is predicted to traverse the Kimberley coast, generating wind gusts capable of reaching 100 km/h.

This weather system is projected to attain tropical cyclone status late Sunday or early Monday. Senior meteorologist Ms. Miriam Bradbury indicated that gale-force winds and increased rainfall could emerge from Monday morning. “Forecast rainfall in the flood watch area is expected to result in river rises, areas of flooding, and may adversely affect road conditions,” she commented.

The system is anticipated to shift southwest towards the Pilbara coast between Tuesday and Thursday, potentially intensifying as it develops into a tropical cyclone. Ms. Bradbury explained that several factors remain uncertain regarding the cyclone’s evolution, including its energy levels and the pace at which it develops. She noted that the coastal area may experience damaging wind gusts, local heavy rainfall, flooding, and elevated tides subsequent to the system’s progression.

Moreover, communities in New South Wales and Victoria are bracing for severe thunderstorms, accompanied by large hail, damaging winds, and heavy rain expected on Monday. This impending severe weather closely follows recent heavy rainfall events in north Queensland, particularly affecting coastal and inland areas such as Townsville, Cardwell, and Ingham.

Tropical cyclones are intense circular storm systems characterized by low atmospheric pressure, high winds, and heavy rain. They typically form over warm ocean waters and can lead to significant weather-related hazards, including flooding, landslides, and wind damage. Western Australia’s northern coastline is susceptible to such weather systems, especially during the cyclone season, typically running from November to April. The Bureau of Meteorology plays a crucial role in monitoring and issuing warnings to help mitigate the impacts of severe weather on communities.

In summary, a tropical cyclone watch has been implemented for a significant section of the West Australian coastline, with potential impacts including strong winds, heavy rainfall, and flooding. Meteorological authorities are closely monitoring the situation, with expectations of cyclone formation by early the following week. Residents are advised to remain vigilant and prepared for worsening weather conditions, while areas in New South Wales and Victoria are also facing severe thunderstorms. Such events underscore the importance of preparedness in the face of unpredictable natural phenomena.

Original Source: thenightly.com.au