Tropical Cyclone Dianne Set to Impact Western Australia This Weekend

Tropical Cyclone Dianne is likely to form off Western Australia’s north coast at 8 PM on Friday, expected to make landfall on Saturday morning as a category one system. Wind gusts of up to 100 km/h and significant rainfall are forecasted. Residents have been urged to prepare for potential flooding and dangerous conditions.

Tropical Cyclone Dianne is anticipated to form off Western Australia’s north coast at approximately 8 PM on Friday, as per the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM). The system, identified as tropical low 28U, is expected to evolve into a category one cyclone and make landfall on the Kimberley coast around 2 AM on Saturday. Residents in Derby and West Kimberley, particularly around coastal areas, should prepare for the impending weather conditions.

The BOM indicated that the cyclone will bring wind gusts of 100 km/h and significant rainfall. As of Friday afternoon, the tropical low was located about 280 kilometers north of Derby, with its movement speed increasing from 13 to 17 km/h. Local residents will have access to sand and sandbags on Friday between 3:30 PM and 5:30 PM, provided by the SES unit in Derby.

Senior forecaster Luke Huntington noted that while the system is primarily a category one cyclone, there is a possibility of it reaching category two status. However, the cyclone is expected to dissipate quickly, reverting to a tropical low by Saturday morning. Rainfall projections indicate that between 100 to 150 millimeters may accumulate, affecting areas from Troughton Island to Beagle Bay on the Dampier Peninsula.

As the cyclone approaches, the Department of Fire and Emergency Services cautioned residents of West Kimberley to plan accordingly and remain vigilant. Superintendent Leon Gardiner emphasized the importance of avoiding travel through flooded areas, as even shallow waters can pose significant risks. The authorities are closely coordinating with remote coastal communities and offshore mining operations to ensure safety measures are in place.

Mount Gibson Iron, which operates on Koolan Island, stated that they do not anticipate significant disruptions beyond typical wet season impacts. Meanwhile, local residents express optimism over the rain, viewing it as beneficial after a prolonged dry spell. Derby resident Karen Rule noted the community’s preparedness and excitement for the rain, expressing hopes for enhanced river flows and reduced damage during the cyclone event.

Should the cyclonic system materialize, it will be designated as Tropical Cyclone Dianne, marking the first such event to cross the Kimberley coast in the current wet season.

Tropical Cyclone Dianne is expected to form this evening and impact Western Australia’s Kimberley region early Saturday morning. Residents must prepare for potential wind gusts reaching 100 km/h and significant rainfall. Local emergency services have advised against unnecessary travel due to flash flooding. The community is largely prepared for the storm, with some viewing the forecasted rain as a welcome relief after dry months. The situation will be closely monitored as the cyclone develops.

Original Source: www.abc.net.au