Ex-Tropical Cyclone Dianne is moving inland and weakening; however, flooding risks persist in Western Australia’s Kimberley region, particularly in Derby, which has recorded significant rainfall. Residents are advised to prepare for strong winds and potential road closures while local officials assess community needs.
Ex-Tropical Cyclone Dianne continues to weaken as it progresses inland, yet residents in the Kimberley region of Western Australia are advised to remain vigilant for potential flooding. Notably, Derby has already recorded over 130 mm of rainfall since 9 a.m. following the cyclone’s landfall as a category one system.
Areas such as Fitzroy Crossing, Kalumburu, Kuri Bay, Mitchell Plateau, and Mount Barnett are also on alert for possible flooding. The cyclone made landfall on Saturday morning and subsequently weakened to a tropical low by 9 a.m., passing east of Derby, which has experienced significant rainfall. As the system moves southward, the Bureau of Meteorology cautions that flash flooding is likely in the northern and western regions of the Kimberley, particularly around Fitzroy Valley.
The local population should prepare for sustained winds of up to 65 kilometers per hour, with gusts reaching 95 kilometers per hour near the cyclone’s center. Daniel Hayes, a duty forecaster at BOM, indicated that heavy rainfall is expected to be concentrated along the cyclone’s path, with Derby receiving 126 mm in six hours up until 8:30 a.m.
Locals in Derby have welcomed the rainfall. Shire president Peter McCumstie described the current weather as “awesome,” noting that residents enjoyed the cooler temperatures and revived rain gauges. He emphasized that while damage reports have been minimal, complacency is not advisable as conditions may worsen.
Karen Rule, a resident of Derby, expressed her enjoyment of the town’s significant rainfall, having taken precautionary measures the previous day. She remarked, “You do not realize how many things you have lying around until you start thinking about what will happen when things blow in the wind.”
Acting Superintendent John Green from the Department of Fire and Emergency Services reported no significant damage thus far. He acknowledged that the Kimberley region can typically endure such weather events. Mr. Green stated that the focus is on contacting local communities to assess their resupply needs and advised caution regarding road closures as water levels rise, stating, “If you do not know the depth or current of that water, then stay out of it.”
In conclusion, while Ex-Tropical Cyclone Dianne weakens as it moves inland, communities in Western Australia’s Kimberley region remain under threat of flooding. With substantial rainfall already recorded and warnings issued for sustained winds, local authorities stress the importance of preparedness and caution. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and be aware of road safety as conditions continue to develop.
Original Source: www.abc.net.au
