Australia: Adverse weather forecast across parts of northeastern Western Australia and far western Northern Territory through at least Feb. 21

Severe weather is forecast over parts of northeastern Western Australia and far western Northern Territory through at least Feb. 21. The remnants of Tropical Cyclone Lincoln are located near Halls Creek, WA, as of Feb. 20 and are forecast west-northwestward across the affected area towards the coast through early Feb. 21.

As of the afternoon of Feb. 20, the Australian Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued a severe weather warning for heavy rainfall across parts of the eastern and northern Kimberley Forecast District in WA and northwestern Tanami and southwestern Gregory forecast districts in NT. Locations that may be affected include Halls Creek, Kununurra, Wyndham, Mount Barnett, Troughton Island, Warmun, and Gregory Forecast District west of Daguragu. Rainfall totals of 8-12 cm (3-5 inches) are forecast across the affected area, with localized heavier amounts of over 20 cm (8 inches) possible. Flood watches are in place for several river catchments across the affected area and marine warnings for strong winds have been issued in coastal areas. Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming hours and days.

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 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 rain has saturated the soil.

Floodwaters and debris flows may render further bridges or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas with heavy rainfall and potential track inundation. Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at regional airports.

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.