Source: Bureau of Meteorology

Issued at 11:35 am WST on Saturday 24 February 2024

Flood Watch Number: 4

FLOODING POSSIBLE IN PARTS OF PILBARA AND GASCOYNE COAST AND CENTRAL WEST RIVERS

Ex-Tropical Cyclone Lincoln lies to the north-northwest of Exmouth and is tracking towards the south. It is expected to cross the northwest Gascoyne coast as a tropical low this evening or early Sunday morning. The system is expected to weaken and continue in a southeasterly direction, into the southern Gascoyne and adjacent Central West district during Sunday.

Rainfall totals of up to 34 mm were recorded over the Flood Watch area in the 24 hours to 9:00 am Saturday. Catchments in the Flood Watch area are relatively dry.

Widespread rainfall totals of 10-30 mm with isolated totals above 50 mm are forecast for Saturday over the Pilbara and Gascoyne Coast River catchments. Further rainfall totals of 20-50 mm with isolated totals in excess of 80 mm possible over parts of the Central West District and Gascoyne Coast catchments on Sunday.

River, creek, and stream rises are likely with heavy rainfall, with flooding possible across the Pilbara and Gascoyne Coast Rivers from late Saturday. Flooding is possible in parts of the Central West District Rivers, in the Greenough River catchment, from Sunday afternoon.

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:

Lyndon-Minilya Rivers
Gascoyne River(Lower reaches)
Wooramel River
Murchison River
Greenough River

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.dfes.wa.gov.au

Current river levels are available from Department of Water and Environmental Regulation at www.water.wa.gov.au

Rainfall and River Conditions Map