Source: Bureau of Meteorology

Issued at 12:00 pm WST on Friday 20 September 2024

Flood Watch Number: 1

RIVER AND CREEK LEVEL RISES AND LOCALISED FLOODING POSSIBLE ACROSS THE FLOOD WATCH AREA

A broad trough of low pressure developing over the Kimberley and Pilbara is expected to deepen over the weekend and extend to the Interior.

Catchments remain dry ahead of the expected rainfall.

Unseasonal showers and thunderstorms over the weekend and during Monday may bring consecutive days of moderate rainfall over the Flood Watch area. Widespread rainfall totals of 10-25 mm on Saturday, 20-40 mm on Sunday and 30-45 mm on Monday are forecast with isolated daily falls in excess of 70 mm possible.

Significant river, creek, and stream level rises are likely with heavy rainfall, as well as overland inundation with areas of localised flooding possible across the Flood Watch area.

Many roads, and possibly primary and secondary highways may be affected. Some communities and homesteads may become isolated. Check road conditions before travelling.

Catchments likely to be affected include:

Sturt Creek District
Tanami Desert
Sandy Desert

This flood watch is available by dialling 1300 659 213. For more information on the Flood Watch Service visit http://www.bom.gov.au/water/floods/floodWarningServices.shtml

Flood Safety Advice:
DFES advises people and communities to be aware that flooding is possible and be prepared to relocate equipment and livestock. Watch water levels. Travellers need to be aware that road conditions may be adversely affected and travel plans may need to be reconsidered. Do not drive into water of unknown depth and velocity.

Community information is available from DFES at www.emergency.wa.gov.au/

Current river levels are available from Department of Water and Environmental Regulation at www.water.wa.gov.au/maps-and-data/monitoring/river-level-monitoring

Rainfall and River Conditions Map