Tropical Cyclone Sean Develops Off Western Australia’s North-West Coast
Tropical Cyclone Sean has developed off the north-west coast of Western Australia, approximately 150 kilometers from Pilbara. The system has produced strong winds and rain, but is unlikely to cross the coast. Residents are warned to stay informed as the cyclone tracks south-west, with potential strengthening and impacts expected in the coming days.
Tropical Cyclone Sean has developed off the north-west coast of Western Australia, specifically located approximately 150 kilometers from the Pilbara coast. This category one system has brought increased winds and rainfall to the Kimberley and Pilbara areas. Despite these impacts, the Bureau of Meteorology predicts that the cyclone is unlikely to make landfall, maintaining a parallel path along the coastline.
Current assessments indicate that Tropical Cyclone Sean possesses sustained winds of 85 kilometers per hour, with gusts reaching up to 120 kilometers per hour. The cyclone is progressing towards the west-southwest at a velocity of 13 kilometers per hour. Forecasts suggest that it will likely strengthen to a category two system, resulting in potential damaging wind gusts affecting the region between Whim Creek and Mardie, encompassing Karratha and Dampier.
The cyclone is expected to advance southward later on Sunday, impacting areas such as Onslow and Exmouth. Additionally, destructive wind gusts may affect offshore islands if the cyclone approaches the coast more closely than anticipated. Authorities also warn of a storm tide in the region, with the possibility of large waves causing minor coastal flooding.
On the night prior, Port Hedland experienced significant rainfall, recording 80 millimeters within 24 hours, along with peak wind gusts at 82 kilometers per hour. Exmouth recorded 26.2 millimeters of rain and peak gusts of 52 kilometers per hour. Karratha noted minimal rainfall at 2.6 millimeters, yet wind speeds peaked at 83 kilometers per hour. Moreover, Legendre Island reported a powerful wind gust of 107 kilometers per hour, showcasing the cyclone’s strength.
Residents in the affected areas are urged to stay informed via EmergencyWA and to heed community advisories, ensuring safety amid the storm’s progression. Authorities are actively monitoring the situation, predicting that by Monday, the cyclone will likely veer south-westward and move into open waters away from the Australian coastline.
Tropical Cyclone Sean is currently evolving off the coast of Western Australia, within the regions of Kimberley and Pilbara. Cyclones of this nature typically arise in warm ocean waters, gathering strength via atmospheric pressures and winds. Understanding the behavior and trajectory of such weather systems is crucial for predicting effects on local communities and infrastructure, particularly in relation to rainfall, wind intensity, and potential flooding risks.
In summary, Tropical Cyclone Sean has emerged off Western Australia, bringing heavy rain and strong winds to local regions. Authorities continue to assess its trajectory and potential impacts while stressing the importance of community preparedness and awareness. Although it is expected to remain offshore, ongoing vigilance remains essential as the cyclone intensifies and changes course over the coming days.
Original Source: www.abc.net.au
