Media release

Tropical Cyclone Warning issued

Emergency Service

The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a Tropical Cyclone Warning for parts of the Northern Territory and Western Australia with an active monsoon bringing wet and windy conditions across coastal areas of the Top End, with three-day rainfall totals of 150-200mm forecast.  

A tropical low in the Timor Sea is expected to intensify to cyclone strength and track towards the Kimberley coast during the weekend.   

The warning covers an area from Dundee Beach to the Mitchell Plateau including Wadeye, Kalumburu and Wyndham. A cyclone watch remains current from Point Stuart to Dundee Beach including the Tiwi Islands and Darwin, and from the Mitchell Plateau to Cockatoo Island.

Manager Hazard Preparedness and Response Shenagh Gamble said that this large area reflects the wide range of possible tracks this system could take.

"Tropical systems can intensify and change direction quickly. The system is being closely monitored by the Bureau and communities are reminded to stay up to date with the latest forecasts and warnings using the BOM Weather app or the Bureau's website.

"A Flood Watch remains in place for the northwest coast of the Northern Territory and many parts of north west Top End coast can expect to see rainfall totals of 150-200 mm over the next three days with isolated higher totals possible."

Northern Territory Emergency Service Manager Northern Command, Mark Cunnington said, “Those residents within the now-warning area, in particular around the Wadeye area, should finalise their preparations and be prepared to take shelter should the weather start to deteriorate in their region.

“Your emergency kits should be stocked and ready. You should determine now, where you and your family will take shelter if required to do so.

“Check on your neighbours, particularly any elderly or vulnerable people who may not be aware of the developing situation.

“Heavy rains and gales are possible; please use all safety precautions and never attempt to cross any flooded roads or crossings.”

Communities should be prepared for potential impacts and are encouraged to keep up to date with the latest forecasts and warnings on the Bureau's website www.bom.gov.au and BOM Weather app, and follow the advice of emergency services at www.securent.nt.gov.au.

Should the system form into a cyclone, it will be named Tropical Cyclone Anika.