WA weather: Severe thunderstorms could cause floods, road closures in Pilbara region

Wild weather is set to leave WA drenched over the coming days, with flood warnings still in place for some parts of the State.

Rain and thunderstorms have sparked concerns about flash and riverine flooding in areas including Stuart Creek District, Sandy, Tanami and Western Desert catchments.

On Sunday, Bureau of Meteorology’s Dean Narramore said the intense rainfall could cause major road problems in the area.

“Of more concern is many of our roads in this area are dirt,” Mr Narramore said.

“So this rainfall could lead to flooded and muddy roads, making roads impassable, leading to road closures and possible isolation of residents and communities in this area and travel problems as well, if you are moving through this area.”

Parts of the Pilbara have already copped 30mm to 50mm, and the heavy rain is set to continue into Sunday night, Monday and Tuesday.

“A lot of our falls for the Pilbara area saw a widespread 30 to 50 millimetres and we’re likely to see more of that in the coming days,” Mr Narramore said.

“Widespread rain and storm activity continuing across much of northern WA and starting to creep into western parts of the NT as we move into Monday morning.

“As we go through the day on Monday, we’re continuing to see widespread shower and thunderstorm activity.

“Now, some of these storms could be severe on Monday with heavy rainfall and damaging winds and some of that rain also starting to extend into western parts of South Australia, though falls will be much lighter there.

“Then as we move into Monday night and Tuesday, we’re continuing to see rain and storm spreading across WA.”

While there is no immediate danger to residents in the area, Emergency WA urges locals to stay informed in case the situation changes.

WHAT TO DO:

• Never walk, swim or play in floodwaters as they are dangerous.
• Prepare to move cars, equipment, livestock and pets early so they are not caught in floodwaters.
• Prepare an emergency kit including enough canned food and water to last for five to seven days, as well as clothing, important documents such as identification and insurance papers, medication, cash and an AM/FM radio that runs off batteries to listen to warnings.
• Fill your vehicle’s fuel tank.
• Watch for changes in water levels so you are ready if you need to leave.
• Do not park or camp adjacent to rivers.
• Find out more about how to get ready for a flood by visiting emergency.wa.gov.au/prepare.