Pilbara weather warning: People in parts of Karratha, Millstrean, Roebourne urged to brace for flooding

A severe weather warning that was set to batter the Pilbara region overnight has been cancelled.

Residents in the Pilbara on Wednesday night were urged to brace for intense thunderstorms and potentially life-threatening floods as ex-tropical cyclone Olga was expected to batter the region.

A storm warning was issued at 9.16pm for locations including Karratha, Millstream, Pannawonica, Whim Creek, Roebourne and Wickham.

Ex-tropical cyclone Olga already produced 46.3mm of rainfall in the 30 minutes before 8.15pm in Karratha and is expected to bring intense thunderstorms later in the evening.

The Bureau of Meteorology says, “Very dangerous thunderstorms are likely to produce heavy, locally intense rainfall that may lead to dangerous and life-threatening flash flooding in the warning area over the next several hours.”

On Wednesday afternoon, a separate weather warning was issued for Exmouth, Onslow, Barrow Island, Cape Preston, Mardie, and North West Cape. The area was expected to be hit with potentially damaging winds around 100km/h before conditions eased.

“Although severe rainfall rates are not expected, localised 6-hour falls of 50 to 70 mm are possible in the warning area overnight and Thursday morning,” The Bureau says.

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services is monitoring the situation. People should not drive into water of unknown depths and watch for hazards such as fallen powerlines.

DFES warns some roads may be closed as a result of the weather conditions.

If people are in the water on boats, they should leave now.

If people are unable to help themselves and require assistance, or if their homes have been badly damaged, they can contact SES on 132 500.

In any life-threatening situation, people should call 000.

What you should do:

• If people are outside, they should stay away from powerlines, drains, trees and streams

• Close your curtains and blinds, and stay inside, away from windows.

• Unplug electrical appliances and avoid using landline telephones if there is lightning.

• If there is flooding, create your own sandbags by using pillowcases filled with sand and place them around doorways to protect your home