
The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a cyclone warning for parts of Western Australia as a tropical cyclone forms off the state’s northern coast.
The system, located approximately 150 kilometers north of the Pilbara coast, began developing around 8 a.m. today, bringing winds of 85 kilometers per hour that have since intensified to 120 kilometers per hour.
Strong winds and heavy rainfall are expected to impact the Kimberley and Pilbara regions. While the cyclone is not anticipated to directly affect heavily populated areas, the Bureau has warned of the potential for damaging winds and worsening rainfall conditions.
Residents in the affected regions are urged to stay vigilant and monitor updates from the Bureau as conditions evolve.
Damaging wind gusts are expected in coastal areas between Port Hedland and Exmouth, including Karratha and Dampier. Those wind gusts are forecast to extend west of Mardie to Ningaloo on Sunday afternoon.
Large waves caused by the cyclonic conditions are expected to cause minor flooding between Port Hedland and Exmouth, with people in those areas told to take measures to protect their property.
Pilbara Ports closed the Port of Port Hedland on Saturday, ordering all boats in the inner port to leave by 6pm.