Source: Bureau of Meteorology

Issued at 10:57 am WST on Saturday 13 January 2018

The Bureau of Meteorology, Australia

Flood Watch Number: 4

Flooding is possible in a number of catchments in the Pilbara, Gascoyne and Central West Districts due to heavy rainfall associated with Ex-Tropical Cyclone Joyce.

The remnants of Ex-Tropical Cyclone Joyce will track towards the southwest through the inland Pilbara, inland Gascoyne and into northern parts of the Southwest Land Division over the weekend.

Heavy rainfall is forecast over the central Pilbara and inland Gascoyne on Saturday. Widespread daily rainfall totals of around 50 to 80 mm are expected, with isolated heavier falls of 125 mm possible. Rainfall totals of 50 to 80 mm are forecast for the Central West district with isolated totals up to 125 mm overnight Sunday into Monday.

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

Wooramel River

Murchison River

Greenough River

A flood warning has been issued for the De Grey River. 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