Source: Bureau of Meteorology

Issued at 12:51 pm WST on Thursday 14 March 2024

Flood Watch Number: 13

FURTHER ISOLATED FLOODING POSSIBLE ACROSS THE FLOOD WATCH AREA FROM THURSDAY

A broad low pressure trough will persist over the north of the State. A tropical low well offshore to the northwest of the state is moving closer. There is a high chance this tropical low will intensify into a tropical cyclone from Friday and may impact the Pilbara or southwest Kimberley coasts on the weekend.

Heavy rain with showers and thunderstorms are forecast across the Flood Watch area over the next few days.

Catchments in the Flood Watch area are wet following recent rainfall.

Rainfall totals of up to 95 mm were recorded across the Flood Watch area in the 24 hours to 9:00 am Thursday. River level rises and flooding have been observed at some locations within the Flood Watch area.

Rainfall totals of between 20- 40 mm are forecast across the Flood Watch area, with isolated falls up to 100mm in the western Kimberley for the remainder of Thursday and Friday.

Significant river, creek, and stream rises are likely with heavy rainfall, with flooding and overland inundation possible across parts of the Flood Watch area.

Many roads, and possibly secondary highways may be affected. Some communities and homesteads may become isolated. Check road conditions before travelling.

Generalised flood warnings are current for the Salt Lakes and Eucla districts.

Catchments likely to be affected include:
East Kimberley Rivers

North Kimberley Rivers

West Kimberley Rivers

Fitzroy River
(Minor Flood Warning is current for the Fitzroy River)

De Grey River
(Generalised Flood Warning is current)

Pilbara Coastal Rivers

Fortescue River

Sandy Desert

This flood watch is available by dialling 1300 659 213. For more information on the Flood Watch Service visit http://www.bom.gov.au/water/floods/floodWarningServices.shtml
Flood Safety Advice:

DFES advises people and communities to be aware that flooding is possible and be prepared to relocate equipment and livestock. Watch water levels. Travellers need to be aware that road conditions may be adversely affected and travel plans may need to be reconsidered. Do not drive into water of unknown depth and velocity.

Community information is available from DFES at www.emergency.wa.gov.au/

Current river levels are available from Department of Water and Environmental Regulation at www.water.wa.gov.au/maps-and-data/monitoring/river-level-monitoring

Rainfall and River Conditions Map