Tropical Cyclone Dianne Set to Form and Impact Western Australia

Tropical Cyclone Dianne is likely to develop off Western Australia’s coast at 8 PM on Friday, crossing the Kimberley coast early Saturday morning as a category one cyclone. Residents are advised to prepare for damaging winds and heavy rainfall, with significant impacts expected. Authorities and local communities are taking necessary precautions as the region braces for the weather system.

The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has indicated a high likelihood that tropical low 28U will develop into Tropical Cyclone Dianne by 8 PM on Friday. This weather system is expected to cross the Kimberley coast of Western Australia early Saturday morning, around 2 AM, as a category one cyclone, bringing significant wind gusts and heavy rainfall to the region.

Residents in areas such as Derby and the West Kimberley, particularly on islands, are urged to make necessary preparations. Current assessments report that the cyclone’s center is located approximately 280 kilometers north of Derby, with wind speeds increasing from 13 kilometers per hour to 17 kilometers per hour, representing an escalation in the system’s intensity.

Sand and sandbags are available for collection in Derby on Friday from 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM at the SES unit located at the intersection of Sutherland Street and Derby Highway. The cyclone is expected to form south of Kuri Bay and will likely make landfall as it shifts southward towards the Central Kimberley after crossing the coastline.

Senior forecaster Luke Huntington has noted that upon arrival, the cyclone may remain as a category one but carries a slight chance of becoming a category two system. However, he cautioned that it is anticipated to dissipate quickly, reverting back to a tropical low by Saturday morning.

The forecast predicts damaging winds of up to 100 kilometers per hour and potentially 100 to 150 millimeters of rainfall as the cyclone moves inland over the weekend. This rainfall will predominantly affect the area stretching from Troughton Island to Beagle Bay on the Dampier Peninsula, further complicating weather conditions.

West Kimberley residents are advised to prepare for adverse weather as flash flooding is anticipated. Kimberly Superintendent Leon Gardiner emphasized the importance of planning for the next 24 to 48 hours and minimizing unnecessary travel through affected areas. He asserted that individuals should exercise caution around flooded roadways or creeks, as they can be deceptively dangerous.

Authorities have communicated with remote coastal communities and offshore mining operations, such as those at Koolan Island and Cockatoo Island, regarding their cyclone preparedness. Many are opting to maintain staff on-site, equipped with food supplies and cyclone shelters while executing precautionary measures.

Mount Gibson Iron, operating on Koolan Island, reported that operations will continue with minor disruptions due to the ongoing wet season. Meanwhile, local residents express enthusiasm for the expected rainfall, viewing it as a much-needed relief following dry months. Community member Karen Rule highlighted that residents are taking precautions to secure their properties and are hopeful for adequate rain to replenish local waterways, thereby minimizing potential damage during the impending weather event.

In summary, Tropical Cyclone Dianne is expected to form off the Kimberley coast of Western Australia, with preparations underway for its impact, including potential wind gusts of up to 100 km/h and heavy rainfall. Residents are advised to take precautionary measures, and relevant authorities are on alert to manage the situation effectively. Community members express optimism regarding the beneficial rain, balancing safety with enthusiasm for the much-needed precipitation.

Original Source: www.abc.net.au