Tropical Cyclone Sean Develops Off Western Australia, Heavy Rain Expected
Tropical Cyclone Sean has formed off Western Australia’s north coast, bringing high winds and rain to the Kimberley and Pilbara regions. The Bureau of Meteorology predicts it will remain offshore, with potential strengthening. Impacts may include damaging winds and minor flooding, particularly in areas such as Karratha and Onslow, as Cyclone Sean shifts south-west.
Tropical Cyclone Sean has developed off the northwest coast of Western Australia, demonstrating significant strength with sustained winds recorded at 85 kilometers per hour and gusts reaching 120 kilometers per hour. The Bureau of Meteorology has categorized it as a category one cyclone, located approximately 150 kilometers north of the Pilbara coast. Reports indicate that heavy rain and strong winds have already impacted the Kimberley and Pilbara regions as of Sunday morning.
The cyclone is currently advancing in a west-southwesterly direction at a pace of 13 kilometers per hour. Despite its intensity, the Bureau suggests it is unlikely to make landfall, predicting that it will maintain a parallel course along the Pilbara coastline. However, it is anticipated to strengthen into a category two system, which could lead to damaging winds in areas including Whim Creek, Karratha, and Dampier, with effects expected to shift southward toward Onslow and Exmouth.
In conjunction with potential damaging winds, local authorities are preparing for storm tide risks which may cause minor flooding due to large wave activity along coastal areas. By Monday, forecasts predict that the cyclone will change course to the southwest, moving away from the Australian coastline. Evidence of the storm’s impact includes Port Hedland experiencing 80 millimeters of rain within 24 hours and wind gusts reaching 82 kilometers per hour.
Exmouth recorded 26.2 millimeters of rain and gusts of 52 kilometers per hour, while Karratha observed minimal rainfall of 2.6 millimeters accompanied by wind speeds peaking at 83 kilometers per hour. Wind measurements from offshore islands further indicate the cyclone’s force, with Legendre Island reporting gusts of 107 kilometers per hour on Sunday morning. Individuals in the affected regions are encouraged to keep updated through EmergencyWA and adhere to community advisories.
Tropical cyclones are powerful storm systems characterized by a low-pressure center, strong winds, and heavy rain. They typically form over warm ocean waters and can traverse large distances. The Bureau of Meteorology monitors such systems closely, providing warnings and forecasts to mitigate risks to life and property. In Western Australia, cyclones often impact coastal communities, prompting preparedness measures from local authorities.
In summary, Tropical Cyclone Sean poses significant risks to the northwest coast of Western Australia, including damaging winds and heavy rainfall. Authorities are monitoring its trajectory and potential impacts on coastal towns. Residents are urged to stay informed and prepared as the storm progresses, while the Bureau of Meteorology continues to provide updates on its path and intensity.
Original Source: www.abc.net.au
