27 Jun 2023 | 03:35 AM UTC
Australia: Adverse weather forecast across most of Northern Territory and northern and central Western Australia through at least July 2
Adverse weather forecast across parts of northern, northwestern Australia until at least July 2. Possible flooding, associated disruptions.
Event
Heavy rainfall, strong winds, and possible flooding are forecast across most of the Northern Territory, and northern and central Western Australia through at least July 2. Heavy rainfall is forecast to develop across the southwest of the Northern Territory through June 27 before extending across southern and central parts from June 28, and gradually clearing from the west July 1-2. Heavy rainfall is developing over northern Western Australia and is forecast to peak June 27 before easing June 28. The heavy rainfall is likely to redevelop June 29 and peak June 30, before easing and clearing July 2.
As of June 27, the Australian Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued flood watches across the Pilbara, Interior, and Kimberley districts in Western Australia and across the southern and western parts of the Northern Territory. Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.
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 or a lack of 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 the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall.
Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters.
Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation. Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at airports in the region. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations if strong winds and large waves trigger hazardous sea conditions.
Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and employees' inability to reach work sites. Electricity and telecommunications service disruptions are possible where significant flooding, strong winds, or landslides impact utility networks.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where there is forecast of flooding. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
