Key Takeaways
- Tropical Cyclone Hayley has formed off the north coast of Western Australia and is expected to intensify to a category two system by Monday afternoon
- A watch zone has been established from Broome to Cockatoo Island, including the town of Derby
- Residents in the area are being asked to prepare for the cyclone, with current projections showing it will affect the Kimberley coast by Wednesday or Thursday
- The cyclone currently has wind gusts of up to 120km/h and is tracking in a southern direction
- Preparations are underway in the region, with loose items being cleared and water and dry goods being stocked up
Introduction to Tropical Cyclone Hayley
Tropical Cyclone Hayley has formed off the north coast of Western Australia, prompting residents in the tourist town of Broome to prepare for its potential impact. The cyclone is currently located approximately 535 kilometres north-west of Broome and is classified as a category one system. According to the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM), the cyclone is expected to intensify to a category two system by Monday afternoon and start to affect the Kimberley coast by Wednesday or Thursday. With wind gusts of up to 120km/h, the cyclone is tracking in a southern direction, and residents are being advised to take necessary precautions.
Preparations and Watch Zone
A watch zone has been established from Broome to Cockatoo Island, which includes the town of Derby. The BOM has warned that the cyclone may bring strong winds, heavy rainfall, and storm surges to the region. Residents are being asked to prepare for the cyclone by clearing loose items, stocking up on water and dry goods, and having a plan in place in case of an evacuation. The Djarindjin Aboriginal Corporation, which manages the remote community on the Dampier Peninsula north of Broome, has already begun preparations. Chief executive Nathan McIvor stated that the community is as prepared as possible, with loose items cleared and supplies stocked up.
Community Preparations and Historical Context
The Dampier Peninsula has historically not been badly affected by cyclones, with Mr. McIvor noting that the region has been protected by a kind of "umbrella" that has shielded it from the worst of the storms. However, with the climate changing, the community is seeing more cyclones heading in their direction, and the "umbrella" may be starting to break down. Despite this, the community is well-prepared, with plans in place to keep residents safe. Mr. McIvor stated that the community has vehicles and buses available for evacuation if needed and that the priority is to ensure everyone’s safety.
Uncertainty and Contingency Planning
BOM senior forecaster Luke Huntington noted that the cyclone’s strength and trajectory are still uncertain, and it is difficult to predict exactly how it will behave. The system may weaken before it crosses the coast, but a stronger system will take longer to weaken. Mr. Huntington emphasized that the BOM is closely monitoring the cyclone’s progress and will provide updates as necessary. In the meantime, residents are advised to stay informed and follow the instructions of local authorities. The community is taking a proactive approach, with Mr. McIvor stating that they are doing everything they can to ensure everyone’s safety.
Conclusion and Next Steps
As Tropical Cyclone Hayley continues to track towards the Kimberley coast, residents in the region are advised to remain vigilant and prepare for the worst. With the cyclone expected to intensify and bring strong winds and heavy rainfall, it is essential that residents take necessary precautions and follow the instructions of local authorities. The community’s preparations and contingency planning are a testament to their resilience and commitment to safety. As the situation continues to unfold, it is crucial that residents stay informed and prioritize their safety above all else.