Ex-Tropical Cyclone Luana Sparks Flash Flood Alerts Across Western Australia
Parts of Western Australia are bracing for severe weather conditions as ex-Tropical Cyclone Luana continues its southward trajectory. Emergency WA has issued urgent storm advice warnings for residents in the Midwest Gascoyne and Goldfields Midlands regions, highlighting significant risks of flash flooding and potential road closures.
Immediate Warnings and Safety Instructions
At 12.10pm on Wednesday, Emergency WA activated a critical alert for communities in the Midwest Gascoyne and Goldfields Midlands. The warning urges residents to "act now and stay safe" as the system approaches with forecasted heavy rainfall exceeding 50 millimetres. This intense precipitation is expected to trigger dangerous flash flooding across the affected areas.
The storm's impact may extend further south, potentially affecting the Forrest region. Emergency services are closely monitoring the situation as ex-Tropical Cyclone Luana tracks slowly in a south-south-easterly direction after crossing the WA coast at the Dampier Peninsula last Saturday.
Transport Disruptions and Road Closures
Local authorities have announced potential road closures in response to the worsening weather conditions. Key transport routes under threat include the Trans Access Road between Kitchener and Rawlinna, along with Cut Line Road. These closures aim to protect motorists from hazardous driving conditions and possible floodwaters.
The ex-tropical cyclone has already moved through the Kimberley region, leaving a trail of weather disturbances. Its current path suggests prolonged rainfall and storm activity across central WA throughout the coming days.
Essential Safety Preparedness Guidelines
Emergency WA has released comprehensive safety recommendations for residents in the warning zones:
- Avoid floodwaters completely – never walk, swim, or play in floodwaters as they contain hidden dangers and contaminants.
- Prepare an emergency kit containing battery-operated radio, torch, spare batteries, and first aid supplies.
- Develop and review household emergency plans using the Emergency WA website or mobile application.
Isolation Preparedness Measures
With potential isolation scenarios, residents should implement additional precautions:
- Stock sufficient canned food and water supplies for five to seven days.
- Ensure adequate medications and baby supplies are readily available.
- Secure important documents including identification papers and insurance policies.
- Maintain full vehicle fuel tanks for potential evacuation needs.
- Regularly monitor updates through official Emergency WA channels.
The weather system continues to evolve, with meteorologists tracking its movement across Western Australia. Residents in affected regions are advised to remain vigilant and follow all official safety directives as conditions develop.
