27 Feb 2022 | 07:29 PM UTC
Australia: Ex-Tropical Cyclone Anika impacting northeastern parts of Western Australia early Feb. 28 /update 4
Ex-Tropical Cyclone Anika impacting northeastern parts of Western Australia, Australia, early Feb. 28
Event
Ex-Tropical Cyclone Anika is impacting parts of northeastern Western Australia as of the morning of Feb. 28. The storm's center of circulation is approximately 600 km (370 miles) west-southwest of Darwin and, while it has lost strength, forecast models indicate the system will strengthen as it proceeds southwestward late Feb. 28 and early March 1. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast, and changes could occur in the coming days.
Authorities have issued warnings for the area. A Warning Zone is in effect between Troughton Island and Cockatoo Island. A Watch Zone is in effect between Cockatoo Island and Bidyadanga, including Broome and Derby. Officials will likely issue new warnings or update existing advisories throughout the system's progression in the coming days.
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying areas and those with easily overwhelmed drainage systems. If weather conditions prove hazardous, localized evacuations, flash flooding, and landslides are possible. The inclement weather could trigger localized business, transport, and utility disruptions and render some bridges or roadways impassable. Flight disruptions at airports in the region and temporary closures of ports are also possible. Stagnant pools of water during and after flooding increase insect- and waterborne diseases, such as dengue fever, cholera, and malaria. Exposure to raw sewage and other hazardous materials mixed with floodwaters poses a serious health threat.
Advice
Activate contingency plans in areas where officials forecast adverse 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 protracted 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.
