Source: Bureau of Meteorology

Issued at 10:13 am WST on Monday 16 May 2022

Flood Watch Number: 1

FLOODING MAY DEVELOP IN THE PILBARA COASTAL RIVERS, FORTESCUE RIVER, ONSLOW COAST, ASHBURTON RIVER AND SANDY DESERT CATCHMENTS

A trough will develop over the Pilbara later today associated with a cloud band before slowly moving across the central Pilbara Tuesday and Wednesday.

Catchments in the Flood Watch area are moderately dry with some areas still wet with isolated areas of flooding from last weeks rainfall, particularly around Pannawonica and Onslow.

Rainfall totals of 25 - 50 mm with isolated 50 - 90 mm are forecast for Tuesday and totals of 15 - 40 mm with possible isolated 60 - 70mm are forecast for Wednesday over the Pilbara catchments.

Rainfall totals of 25 - 50 mm for Tuesday and 15 -40 mm with isolated totals of 40 - 50 mm for Wednesday are forecast over the Sandy Desert catchment.

Flooding of low lying areas and river rises are expected. Many roads, and possibly primary and secondary highways, may be affected. Some communities and homesteads may become isolated. Check road conditions before travelling. Please raise awareness among travellers who may be expecting dry conditions at this time of the year.

Catchments likely to be affected include:
Pilbara Coastal Rivers

Fortescue River

Onslow Coast

Ashburton River

Sandy Desert

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 https://www.emergency.wa.gov.au/

Current river levels are available from Department of Water and Environmental Regulation at www.water.wa.gov.au/maps-and-data/monitoring/river-level-monitoring

Rainfall and River Conditions Map