Western Australia is on high alert as Tropical Cyclone Mitchell intensifies and prepares to make landfall along the Pilbara coast late Sunday night or early Monday morning.
The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has confirmed the system has strengthened into a Category 3 cyclone, bringing the risk of destructive winds, heavy rainfall, flash flooding, storm surges, and dangerous tidal conditions.
Cyclone Mitchell is expected to cross the coast between Exmouth and Onslow, after moving west-northwest of Dampier earlier on Sunday. Wind gusts of up to 195km/h are possible near the centre of the system.
Severe Weather Impacts Expected
Already, parts of the WA coastline have recorded:
- Wind gusts exceeding 120km/h
- Nearly 100mm of rain within 24 hours
- Rising tides and hazardous marine conditions
The cyclone is currently moving toward the coast at around 14km/h and is forecast to weaken to a Category 1 system as it moves south and inland over the coming days. However, authorities warn that the risk of flooding and infrastructure damage remains high.
BOM meteorologist Angus Hines warned
Heavy rainfall and storms could lead to flash flooding, river flooding, and significant road closures which may isolate communities.
He added that wind gusts above 150km/h could bring down trees, damage homes, and cause major power outages, especially along the northwest coast between Karratha and Exmouth, where gusts may reach up to 190km/h.
Flood Risk Heightened After Recent Victoria River Floods
This warning comes only days after severe flooding along the Victoria River, which disrupted travel routes and damaged infrastructure in northern regions. Authorities fear the new cyclone-driven rainfall could worsen conditions in already saturated catchments and trigger further river flooding.
The BOM forecasts 100mm to 200mm of rain across the Pilbara coast, with localised intense downpours that may cause severe flash flooding, particularly around Onslow and the west Pilbara coast.
Travelers are urged to:
- Avoid non-essential travel in affected regions
- Monitor official weather updates and road closures
- Prepare for flight delays, ferry cancellations, and possible evacuations
- Follow instructions from emergency services
Residents and visitors near coastal areas should also be cautious of extremely high tides and storm surges, which may push seawater inland.
