Ex-Tropical Cyclone Luana Triggers Severe Weather Warnings Across Western Australia
Severe weather is expected to impact multiple regions of Western Australia as ex-Tropical Cyclone Luana continues its path across the state. The Bureau of Meteorology has issued urgent storm advice, warning residents to prepare for dangerous conditions.
Bureau of Meteorology Issues Urgent Storm Advice
At 8.49am on Monday, the Bureau of Meteorology released a storm warning for parts of the Kimberley, Pilbara, Midwest Gascoyne, and Goldfields Midlands. The alert advises people in these areas to expect heavy rainfall and damaging winds that could pose significant risks.
Locations that may be affected include Carnegie, Parnngurr, Telfer, and Warburton. Damaging wind gusts of up to 90km/h are possible near the system, with flash flooding likely in southern parts of the Kimberley and the North Interior later on Monday.
Emergency WA Urges Immediate Action for Safety
Emergency WA has issued a stark message to those in the affected regions, stating, “You need to act now and stay safe with severe weather forecast.” The agency recommends that residents in areas prone to isolation due to flooding should stock up on essential supplies.
This includes having enough canned food and water to last five to seven days, as well as necessary medications or baby supplies. Additionally, Emergency WA advises keeping important documents such as identification and insurance papers secure and ensuring vehicles have full fuel tanks.
Impact and Damage from Ex-Tropical Cyclone Luana
Ex-Tropical Cyclone Luana initially made landfall on the Kimberley’s Dampier Peninsula around 2pm on Saturday. It then moved southeast, weakening to a tropical low south of Derby by Sunday morning. Despite this weakening, the system has already caused serious damage in its wake.
The popular beach resort Mercedes Cove Exclusive Coastal Retreat suffered significant destruction, with shocking photographs posted to social media showing parts of its roof completely caved in. Insulation and debris were scattered across the floor, highlighting the storm’s intensity.
DFES Kimberley Superintendent Leon Gardiner reported that cyclone damage was mainly concentrated in Derby, with emergency services responding to 12 call-outs for fallen trees that were blocking or leaning on homes.
What to Do If You Are in the Current Storm Warning Zone
Residents in affected areas should take immediate precautions to protect themselves and their property. Here are key steps recommended by authorities:
- Pack away, secure, or tie down outdoor furniture, trampolines, and other loose items around your home that could be picked up and thrown by strong winds.
- Prepare an emergency kit with a battery-operated radio, a torch, spare batteries, and a first aid kit.
- Review your emergency plan and ensure everyone in your household knows what to do. If you do not have a plan, create one now using the Emergency WA website or app.
- Be prepared to stay indoors when the severe weather hits to avoid unnecessary risks.
As ex-Tropical Cyclone Luana continues to move across Western Australia, staying informed and following official advice is crucial for safety. Monitor updates from the Bureau of Meteorology and Emergency WA for the latest information.
