Source: Bureau of Meteorology

For people in parts of Pilbara district.

Issued at 11:00 am Tuesday, 9 April 2024.
Damaging winds developing near the central Pilbara coast and islands this evening and continue into Wednesday morning.

Weather situation: Tropical Cyclone Olga is positioned about 400 km north of Karratha and is forecast to move in a southwesterly direction, bringing it slowly closer to the Pilbara coastline. The system is expected to weaken, but could still bring a short period of damaging winds to parts of the central Pilbara coastline later this evening and into Wednesday morning.

Strong to DAMAGING WINDS averaging 60 to 70 km/h with peak gusts of around 90 km/h are possible over the Burrup Peninsula and adjacent islands from late evening, extending to Dampier, Karratha and Barrow Island during Wednesday morning.
Winds are expected to ease below warning thresholds during Wednesday afternoon.

Locations which may be affected include Dampier, Karratha, Barrow Island and Cape Preston.

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.