Source: Bureau of Meteorology

Flood Watch Number: 2

FLOODING POSSIBLE FOR THE WEST KIMBERLEY COASTAL RIVERS FROM SUNDAY AND FOR THE DE GREY RIVER AND PARTS OF SANDY DESERT FROM TUESDAY

A tropical low is forming near the north Kimberley coast. The low is forecast to move southwest off the Kimberley coast and develop, potentially reaching cyclone intensity on Monday. The system is then forecast to move further to the southwest towards the Pilbara coast during Tuesday.

A Tropical Cyclone Advice is current for Western Australia.

Catchments across the Flood Watch area, particularly towards the coast, have become wet with recent rainfall.

Locally heavy falls are possible near the Kimberley coast between Cockatoo Island and Broome from Sunday, potentially becoming more widespread on Monday. Widespread daily rainfall totals of 30-60 mm are forecast around the Kimberley coast for Sunday and Monday, with isolated higher totals in excess of 100 mm possible. Higher daily totals are possible during the week depending on the development and track of the low.

Further rainfall is forecast in the north and west Kimberley and possibly in the east Pilbara on Tuesday and Wednesday, with moderate to heavy falls possible.

Forecast rainfall in the flood watch area is expected to result in river rises, areas of flooding and may adversely affect road conditions. Roads may become impassable and some communities may become isolated. Significant disruption of transportation network and extensive road closures are possible.

Catchments likely to be affected include:

West Kimberley Rivers

De Grey 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