WA weather: Bureau of Meteorology issues warning as ex-Tropical cyclone Luana moves across State

Severe weather is expected to slam parts of WA as ex-Tropical Cyclone Luana moves across the State.

The Bureau of Meteorology issued a storm advice at 8.49am on Monday, warning people in parts of the Kimberley, Pilbara, Midwest Gascoyne and Goldfields Midlands to expect heavy rainfall and damaging winds.

Locations which may be affected include Carnegie, Parnngurr, Telfer and Warburton.

Damaging winds gusts of 90km/h are possible near the system, and flash flooding is likely about southern parts of the Kimberley and the North interior late on Monday.

Emergency WA told people in the area: “You need to act now and stay safe with severe weather forecast.”

Those in areas that may be isolated due to flooding should have enough canned food and water to last five to seven days, as well as medications or baby supplies. Emergency WA also advises people to keep important documents such as identification and insurance papers safe and to fill your vehicle’s fuel tank.

Ex-Tropical Cyclone Luana hit the Kimberley’s Dampier Peninsula about 2pm on Saturday, before moving southeast and weakening to a tropical low south of Derby on Sunday morning.

The system caused serious damage, with popular beach resort Mercedes Cove Exclusive Coastal Retreat suffering significant destruction.

Shocking photographs posted to social media show parts of its roof completely caved in, with insulation and debris scattered on the floor.

DFES Kimberley Superintendent Leon Gardiner said the cyclone damage was mainly concentrated to Derby, with 12 call-outs for fallen trees blocking or leaning on homes.

WHAT TO DO IF IN CURRENT STORM WARNING ZONE

• Pack away, secure or tie down outdoor furniture, trampolines and other loose items around your home that could be picked up and thrown by strong winds.
• Prepare an emergency kit with a radio that runs off batteries, a torch, spare batteries and a first aid kit.
• Review your plan 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.
• Be prepared to stay indoors when the severe weather hits.