Residents of Broome and Derby urged to prepare now as cyclone brews off Kimberley Coast

Residents of Broome and Derby have been told to prepare now as a cyclone set to hit the Kimberley coastline develops.

The Bureau of Meteorology predicts a tropical low — currently named 08U — could turn into a category two storm at its peak and make landfall on Tuesday.

It is currently 620km north west of Broome and moving south before being expected to turn towards the coastline from Monday afternoon.

The storm is forecast to reach category two by early Tuesday morning, before returning to a category one as it makes landfall in the early hours of Wednesday.

According to the Bureau, the likely cyclone-to-be will bring damaging winds.

“Gales with damaging wind gusts to 90 km/h are possible for the watch area during Tuesday,” the warning read.

“Destructive wind gusts are possible about the coastal fringe north of Broome to Cape Leveque late Tuesday, if the system moves faster than forecast.

“Widespread moderate to locally heavy rainfall which may lead to flash flooding is possible for the watch area from Tuesday.

“Tides will be higher than normal as 08U approaches the west Kimberley Coast.”

The Department of Fire and Emergency put out an advice warning on Sunday afternoon, urging residents from Broome to Cockatoo Island to stay informed.

“Although there is no immediate danger you need to start preparing for dangerous weather and keep up to date,” the warning read.

“Review your plan and home maintenance, and make sure everyone in your household knows what to do. If you do not have a plan, make one now on Emergency WA or in the Emergency WA app.

“Check your emergency kit has key items like a first aid kit and an AM/FM radio that runs off batteries.

“Know the cyclone warning system and the steps that must be taken for each level.”