Source: Bureau of Meteorology

Flood Watch for western parts of the Pilbara, Gascoyne, Central and Lower West Coastal catchments
Issued at 11:23 am AWST on Thursday 26 March 2026

Flood Watch Number: 9

FLOODING POSSIBLE IN WESTERN PARTS OF THE PILBARA, GASCOYNE, CENTRAL AND LOWER WEST COASTAL CATCHMENTS

Severe Tropical Cyclone Narelle is intensifying while moving west southwest over water roughly parallel to the Pilbara coast. On Friday Severe Tropical Cyclone Narelle is forecast to turn to the south with high confidence in a crossing along the west coast overnight Friday into Saturday morning.

Severe Tropical Cyclone Narelle is forecast to bring widespread heavy rainfall across the western Pilbara, western Gascoyne and Central West catchments from Thursday, extending south across catchments in the Lower West and Great Southern from Friday.

Catchments are relatively dry across the Flood Watch area. River and creek level rises and areas of minor to moderate flooding may develop from Thursday. Localised flooding and overland inundation is also possible within the Flood Watch area as well as prolonged overland flooding and ponding.

Roads may be affected, and some communities may become isolated. Check road conditions before travelling.

Catchments likely to be affected include:

Avon River

Swan River

Moore and Hill Rivers

Yarra Yarra Lakes District

Greenough River

Murchison River

Wooramel River

Gascoyne River

Lyndon-Minilya Rivers

Current Tropical Cyclone Advice No 68 is for Severe Tropical Cyclone Narelle steadily intensifying. Severe impacts possible for the west Pilbara and Gascoyne coasts.

For the latest flood and weather warnings see www.bom.gov.au/weather-and-climate/warnings-and-alerts

For the latest rainfall and river level information see www.bom.gov.au/australia/flood

Safety Advice:
Don't drive, walk, swim or play in floodwater because it is dangerous.
Stay away from flooded drains, rivers, streams and waterways.
Obey road closure signs. Plan ahead so you don't drive on flooded roads.
Check the ABC and local media for updates. The situation can change quickly, so stay informed.
For local emergency management warnings and advice visit www.emergency.wa.gov.au/.
For emergency assistance call SES on telephone number 132 500. In life-threatening emergencies, call 000 (triple zero) immediately.

Rainfall and River Conditions Map