WA’s north braces for impact as Tropical Cyclone Mitchell remains offshore
Residents in Western Australia’s Gascoyne region are sheltering indoors as Tropical Cyclone Mitchell moves south off the coast of Carnarvon, while others are experiencing much-needed rainfall. The category one system has been tracking along the Pilbara coastline since Friday and was expected to make landfall near Shark Bay overnight or early Tuesday morning.
Cyclone Mitchell’s Path and Intensity
According to the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) forecaster Caroline Crowe, rain and winds have begun to increase across the World Heritage-listed Shark Bay area, located approximately 800 kilometers north of Perth. Ms. Crowe stated, “The Shark Bay area will see the worst conditions over the next three to six hours.” The system is forecast to dissipate into a tropical low once it crosses the coast.
While weakening over land, the system could still produce damaging wind gusts of up to 100km/h. The BoM has also warned of abnormally high tides in the southern parts of Shark Bay and potential flash flooding in surrounding areas, including the Gascoyne, Central West, and Central Wheatbelt regions.
Impacts and Preparations
As of 10pm AWST on Monday, Department of Fire and Emergency Services Incident Controller Will Blackshaw reported no major damage in Carnarvon or Coral Bay. He expressed cautious optimism, stating, “We’re hoping that in the morning when people get up and have a look around, we won’t see too much more damage. But it’s looking better than not at the moment.”
Emergency crews are monitoring potential damage in Shark Bay, where rainfall totals have already exceeded 80 millimeters since 9am Monday, with approximately 200mm recorded in Monkey Mia and 80mm in Denham. Some water ingress into properties has been reported in Shark Bay.
An evacuation center remains open at the Shark Bay Recreation Centre, while the Carnarvon PCYC is now closed. Several schools in Shark Bay will be closed to all staff and students on Tuesday, though a number of schools in the Pilbara will reopen.
Rainfall and Local Reactions
Carnarvon resident and ABC reporter Rachel Hagan noted that the weather remained relatively calm until heavy rain and wind began in the early afternoon. She observed that residents appeared remarkably calm despite the approaching system. Local produce growers, recently impacted by a heatwave, are anticipating the rainfall with cautious optimism.
In the West Pilbara, Yalleen Station recorded 95 millimeters of rain, breaking a three-year dry spell. Pastoralist Michael Percy described the rainfall as “useful” and a welcome change, while Liam Forrester at Winning Station, north of Carnarvon, reported receiving between 15 and 20 millimeters despite forecasts of up to 80 millimeters.
Recent Developments
Tropical Cyclone Mitchell reached category three strength on Saturday before weakening to a category two system on Sunday and then to a category one on Monday. Karratha experienced wind gusts of 100km/h as the cyclone passed. Some residents in Exmouth have been without power since Sunday night.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of Tropical Cyclone Mitchell?
As of 10pm AWST Monday, Tropical Cyclone Mitchell was a category one system tracking south off the coast of Carnarvon and expected to make landfall near Shark Bay overnight or early Tuesday morning, where it will dissipate into a tropical low.
Which areas are most likely to be affected?
The Shark Bay area is expected to experience the worst conditions. The Gascoyne, Central West, and Central Wheatbelt regions may also experience flash flooding. Abnormally high tides are expected in the southern parts of Shark Bay.
What are the potential hazards associated with this system?
Potential hazards include damaging wind gusts up to 100km/h, abnormally high tides, and flash flooding.
What will the impact of this weather event be on local communities?