Category Three Cyclone Mitchell Threatens Western Australia with Destructive Winds and Life-Threatening Floods
Coastal communities in Western Australia are on high alert as Tropical Cyclone Mitchell, a powerful category three storm, approaches the Pilbara coast. The cyclone is forecast to make landfall between Onslow and Exmouth late on Sunday or early Monday, posing severe risks to lives and property.
Intensifying Storm Poses Immediate Danger
The system intensified over warm ocean waters on Sunday morning, reaching category three strength near the mining town of Karratha. Wind gusts of up to 95 km/h were recorded overnight in Karratha, with authorities still assessing the initial damage. Residents from Whim Creek to Onslow have been warned it is too late to evacuate and must seek immediate shelter indoors, as Mitchell presents a direct threat to homes and safety.
Extreme Weather Conditions Expected
Wind gusts could reach up to 195 km/h along the coast, with potential peaks of 205 km/h if the cyclone moves closer than predicted, according to the Bureau of Meteorology. Damaging gales are expected to spread inland across the western Pilbara from Sunday night, capable of downing trees, damaging structures, and causing widespread power outages. Bureau forecaster Angus Hines emphasised that these destructive winds will intensify over the next 24 hours.
Flooding and Infrastructure Disruptions
The central and west Pilbara coast faces significant flash flooding risks throughout the weekend, with the west Gascoyne region likely affected by Monday. Abnormally high tides are forecast to bring serious flood threats to the Karratha area early Sunday and near Onslow by Sunday afternoon. In response, major ports along the Pilbara coastline, including the world's largest iron-ore export hub, were closed on Saturday. Pilbara Ports will provide updates once terminals are safe to reopen.
Emergency Response and Evacuation Measures
Emergency WA has issued alerts for the landfall, noting that Mitchell may take a more southerly track over land on Monday. Evacuation centres have been established at Karratha Leisureplex and the Onslow Multi Purpose Centre to accommodate displaced residents. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, urging the public to stay informed and follow safety instructions as the cyclone progresses.
