29 Dec 2022 | 06:40 AM UTC
Australia: Adverse weather forecast across parts of northern Western Australia and northern Northern Territory through at least Dec. 31
Severe weather forecast across parts of northwestern Australia through at least Dec. 31. Flooding and associated disruptions possible.
Event
Thunderstorms and heavy rainfall are forecast over parts of northern Western Australia and northern Northern Territory through at least Dec. 31. As of Dec. 29, the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) has issued the following warnings:
Severe weather warning for damaging winds and intense rainfall: parts of Kimberley and North Interior districts in Western Australia. The bureau has warned that strong winds gusting up to 90 kph (56 mph) through Dec. 30. Heavy rainfall is likely to lead to flash flooding. Six-hourly rainfall totals of 12-17 cm (3-7 inches) are possible.
Severe weather warning for damaging winds and heavy rainfall: parts of Daly and Gregory districts in Northern Territory. The bureau has warned that strong winds gusting up to 100 kph (62 mph) may develop the afternoon of Dec. 30. Heavy rainfall over western parts of the Daly and Gregory districts could lead to flash flooding. Six-hourly rainfall totals of 7-10 cm (3-4 inches) are possible through Dec. 30.
Severe thunderstorm warning for heavy rainfall: parts of Barkly District in Northern Territory.
Severe thunderstorm warning for damaging winds: parts of Kimberley District in Western Australia.
Flood watch: Bonaparte coastal rivers, North West coastal rivers, and Kimberley catchments in Northern Territory as well as Kimberley and Sturt Creek District catchments in Western Australia.
Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming hours and days.
Heavy rainfall and flooding have impacted multiple major highways and roads across the Northern Territory, including Buntine, Barkly, and Stuart highways. Further rainfall may cause significant water level rises in rivers and creeks, resulting in prolonged overland flooding and ponding. Roads, including major highways, may become impassable. Some communities and homesteads may become or remain isolated.
Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where heavy rainfall has saturated the soil.
Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.
Transport
The severe weather will likely contribute to transport disruptions throughout the region. Traffic and commercial trucking delays could occur along regional highways. Flooding downpours could inundate some low-lying roads in areas with poor drainage. Strong winds may also pose a hazard to high-profile vehicles. Hazardous weather conditions may cause flight delays and cancellations at airports in the affected region. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions, impacting freight and passenger maritime traffic.
Advice
Monitor local media for updated emergency and weather information. Seek updated information on weather and road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where severe weather is forecast. Plan accordingly for potential delivery delays if routing shipments by truck through the affected area. Do not attempt to drive through flooded areas. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
