Source: Bureau of Meteorology

Issued at 10:34 am WST on Friday 12 January 2018

The Bureau of Meteorology, Australia

Flood Watch Number: 3

Flooding is possible in a number of catchments in the Pilbara and Gascoyne regions due to heavy rainfall associated with Tropical Cyclone Joyce.

Tropical Cylcone Joyce is currently moving parallel to the coast, just offshore from Eighty Mile Beach. It is forecast to move inland during the day and track through the central Pilbara and inland Gascoyne on Saturday. For more details [www.bom.gov.au/cyclone].

Heavy rainfall is forecast over the west Kimberley coast and eastern Pilbara today, extending through the central Pilbara and into the inland Gascoyne on Saturday. Widespread daily rainfall totals of around 50 to 100 mm are expected, with isolated heavier falls of 100-250 mm possible near the system centre.

Forecast rainfall in the affected catchments may result in river rises, areas of flooding and may adversely affect road conditions. Some roads may become impassable and some communities may become isolated.

Catchments likely to be affected include:

Pilbara Coastal Rivers
Fortescue River
Ashburton River
Gascoyne River

Flood warnings have been issued for the West Kimberley Rivers, De Grey River and Sand Desert catchments. For more details [www.bom.gov.au/wa/warnings]

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