Tropical Cyclone Errol Forms Off Western Australia: Expected Intensification and Community Preparedness

Tropical Cyclone Errol has formed off WA’s north coast and is expected to escalate to a category three system by Thursday, with uncertain impacts on the Kimberley coast. Residents are advised to stay informed and prepare for severe weather.

Tropical Cyclone Errol has emerged off the northern coast of Western Australia and is anticipated to escalate to a category three system by Thursday morning. The Bureau of Meteorology indicated uncertainty about its trajectory, suggesting the cyclone may revert towards the Kimberley coast. Consequently, residents in the West Kimberley, especially in Broome, are advised to stay informed about the evolving situation.

As of 9:00 PM WST on Tuesday, Tropical Cyclone Errol, which began as a category one system, was positioned 475 kilometers north-northwest of Broome. The cyclone is characterized by sustained winds of 65 kilometers per hour near its center and gusts reaching up to 95 kilometers per hour, traveling westward at a speed of 13 kilometers per hour. Forecast models predict its intensification to category two by Wednesday night, followed by category three by Thursday, with a possible southeast shift before weakening.

Bureau meteorologist Jessica Lingard noted that the cyclone is expected to strengthen in the coming days. She stated, “It will move up pretty quickly through the severity to category three by Thursday before making a bit of a U-turn and turning back towards the coastline,” but acknowledged uncertainty regarding its impact on the coastal communities. Lingard emphasized the likelihood of the cyclone weakening due to moving into less favorable waters.

Residents are urged to prepare for potential severe weather conditions, including strong winds, significant rainfall, and possible flooding, which could result in road closures. Leon Gardiner, Superintendent of the Department of Fire and Emergency Services in Kimberley, advised residents and visitors to secure their property, tidy up debris, and ensure they have sufficient supplies. For those camping or traveling this weekend, it is crucial to have a contingency plan and stay informed about the cyclone updates.

In summary, Tropical Cyclone Errol has formed off the north West Australian coast and is projected to reach a category three intensity by Thursday morning. Residents in the Kimberley region are urged to remain vigilant and prepared for potential adverse weather conditions. While the cyclone may move towards the coastline, it is expected to weaken as it approaches.

Original Source: www.abc.net.au