Southern Indian Ocean: Tropical Low 08 tracks in the southern Indian Ocean Jan. 22.

Event

Tropical Low 08 maintains its strength as it continues tracking southeast in the southern Indian Ocean, Jan. 22. As of 2300 AWST Jan. 21, the storm's center of circulation was approximately 295 km (183 miles) northwest of Broome, Western Australia. Forecast models indicate the storm will likely strengthen into a Category-1 or potentially Category-2 tropical cyclone as it tracks southeastward in the Indian Ocean over the coming days. The system is forecast to make landfall in northwestern Western Australia early Jan 23 between Broome and Port Hedland. The system will then continue tracking southeastward in interior Western Australia before dissipating, Jan. 24. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast, and significant changes could occur in the coming days.

Australia's Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued gale warnings for the area including Beagle Bay to Port Hedland, including Broome but not including Port Hedland, extending to the inland Pilbara including Marble Bar and Nullagine. Gale watches are in effect for inland areas of the east Pilbara including Telfer and Parnngurr. Additionally, initial flood watches have been issued for the West Kimberley rivers, Sandy Desert, De Grey River and Pilbara Coastal rivers. Authorities will likely issue new warnings or update existing advisories throughout the system's progression in the coming days. Weather warnings could remain active even after the system's immediate threat has diminished, as some areas may still be highly susceptible to rain-induced hazards. The possibility of localized evacuations cannot be discounted if weather conditions prove particularly hazardous.

Hazardous Conditions
Tropical Low 08 will bring heavy rainfall, strong winds, and rough seas to areas of Western Australia through at least Jan. 24. Forecast models indicate 5-10 cm (2-4 inches) are possible in the hardest-hit areas of Western Australia near where the system makes landfall, including portions of Kimberley and Pilbara districts; locally higher totals of up to 25 cm (10 inches) are possible. Lower amounts are expected farther away from the center of circulation. Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near streams, creeks, and rivers, as well as in urban areas with easily overwhelmed or a lack of stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream of large reservoirs could experience flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall, especially in areas of Western Australia that experienced heavy rainfall from the previous tropical low. Rain-induced landslides cannot be discounted in steeply sloped terrains. Flooding could isolate some communities for several days. Coastal flooding and abnormally high tides are possible along Australia's western coast.

In addition to the heavy rain, flooding, and storm surge, the system may produce damaging wind gusts as it approaches landfall. Gusts reaching 90 kph (60 mph) are possible, especially in areas near the center of circulation. Widespread and prolonged power outages due to uprooted trees and toppled utility lines are possible.

Transport
Inclement weather associated with the storm could trigger localized business, transport, and utility disruptions through at least Jan. 24. Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Areal flooding in urban locations could also result in severe traffic congestion, while strong winds will pose a hazard to high-profile vehicles. Heavy rain and low visibility may trigger flight disruptions at regional airports, including, but not limited to, those serving Broome (BME). Disruptions caused by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding, could persist well after conditions have improved. If there is severe damage to infrastructure, repair or reconstruction efforts may exacerbate residual disruptions.

Advice

Activate contingency plans in areas where officials forecast tropical storm conditions. Heed all evacuation orders. Use extreme caution in low-lying coastal areas and near streams, creeks, and other waterways due to the high potential for severe flooding and storm surge. Stockpile water, batteries, and other essentials in advance. Charge battery-powered devices when electricity is available; restrict the use of cellular phones to emergencies only. Power down mobile devices when not in use. Keep important documents in waterproof containers. Observe strict food and water precautions, as municipalities could issue boil-water advisories following flooding events. Take precautions against insect- and waterborne diseases in the coming weeks. Keep any necessary medications in a waterproof container.

Plan accordingly for commercial, transport, and logistics disruptions in areas in the path of the storm, especially if vital infrastructure is damaged. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where flooding has occurred. Confirm flights before checking out of hotels or driving to the airport; clearing passenger backlogs may take several days in some locations.

Resources

Bureau of Meteorology