Published on Thursday, 23 March 2017 at 12:00:00 AM
A tropical low to the north of Port Hedland and associated trough is affecting central parts of the Pilbara. At 10:30am WST radar imagery showed a band of rain continuing to fall through northern parts of the warning area, with the area of heavy rainfall expected to extend southward during the day. The low is expected to cross the coast in the vicinity of Port Hedland around 1:00pm today.
The low may produce DESTRUCTIVE WINDS to 125 kilometres per hour through coastal parts east of Whim Creek, including Port Hedland, which could result in DAMAGE TO HOMES AND PROPERTY.
HEAVY RAINFALL that may lead to FLASH FLOODING is possible throughout the warning area as the low approaches the coast and moves inland. Squally thunderstorms are also a risk through the warning area during Thursday.
Locations which may be affected include Port Hedland, Tom Price, Marble Bar, Nullagine, Pardoo Roadhouse and Whim Creek.
In the 24 hours to 9am Thursday 105mm of rainfall was recorded at Port Hedland. The Department of Fire and Emergency Services advises that people should:
- If outside find safe shelter away from trees, power lines, storm water drains and streams.
- Close your curtains and blinds, and stay inside away from windows.
- Unplug electrical appliances and do not use land line telephones if there is lightning.
- If boating, swimming or surfing leave the water.
- Be alert and watch for hazards on the road such as fallen power lines and loose debris.
- Keep away from flooded drains, rivers, streams and waterways.
- Be careful of fallen trees, damaged buildings and debris.
- Be careful of fallen power lines. They are dangerous and should always be treated as live.
- Assess your home, car and property for damage.
- If damage has occurred take photos and contact your insurance company to organise permanent repairs.
- If your home or property has significant damage, like a badly damaged roof or flooding, call the SES on
132 500.
The next Severe Weather Warning will be issued by 5:00 pm AWST Thursday.
Warnings are also available through TV and Radio broadcasts, the Bureau’s website at www.bom.gov.au or call 1300 659 213. The Bureau and Department of Fire and Emergency Services would appreciate warnings being broadcast regularly.
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