Source: Bureau of Meteorology

Issued at 1:04 pm WST on Friday 15 March 2024

Flood Watch Number: 16

FURTHER FLOODING POSSIBLE ACROSS THE WEST KIMBERLEY AND FLOOD IMPACTS MAY CONTINUE IN EAST KIMBERLEY RIVERS, STURT CREEK DISTRICT AND SANDY DESERT

A broad low pressure trough will persist over the north of the State.

Moderate to 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 106 mm were recorded across the Flood Watch area in the 24 hours to 9:00 am Friday.

Rainfall totals of between 20-40 mm, with isolated falls up to 80mm are forecast in the flood watch area for the remainder of Friday and Saturday.

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.

A minor flood warning is current for the Fitzroy River.

Catchments likely to be affected include:

West Kimberley Rivers

No further widespread flooding is expected in the following catchments: East Kimberley Rivers, North Kimberley Rivers, De Grey River, Pilbara Coastal Rivers, Fortescue River, Sturt Creek District, Sandy Desert. However rainfall and areas of flooding over the last few days may have adversely affected many roads, and possibly primary and secondary highways. Some communities and homesteads may become isolated. Check road conditions before travelling.

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