Australia: Adverse weather forecast across western parts of Western Australia through at least Aug. 17

Event

Heavy rainfall is forecast across western parts of Western Australia through at least Aug. 17. A weather front and associated rain band will approach the west coast of the state late Aug. 15 and will move eastward through Aug. 16. The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) has issued a severe weather warning for heavy rainfall across parts of Central West, Gascoyne, and Central Wheat Belt districts. Locations within the affected region include Geraldton, Kalbarri, Eneabba, Morawa, Mullewa, and Northampton. Six-hourly rainfall totals of up to 6 cm (2.4 inches) and the heavy downpours may lead to flash flooding in some areas. Strong winds are also possible in coastal regions. The BoM has issued marine wind warnings for Perth Local Waters, Gascoyne Coast, Geraldton Coast, Lancelin Coast, Perth Coast, Bunbury Geographe Coast, Leeuwin Coast, Albany Coast, Esperance Coast, and Eucla Coast. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts 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 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 over the coming days. 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 might occur along regional highways. Flooding downpours could inundate some low-lying roads in areas with poor drainage. Strong winds might also pose a hazard to high-profile vehicles. Hazardous weather conditions might cause flight delays and cancellations at airports in the affected region. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations along parts of the Indian Ocean coast 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.

Resources

Australian Bureau of Meteorology (BoM)
Western Australia Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES)
Main Roads Western Australia