Australia: Severe weather forecast in parts of Western Australia through July 14 /update 1

Event

Severe weather is forecast for southwestern Western Australia as a frontal system transits the region. The Australian Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued a Severe Weather Warning for parts of the Lower West, South West, South Coastal, Central West, Great Southern, and Central Wheat Belt forecast districts as cold front affects the area July 12. Damaging winds reaching 100 kph (62 mph), heavy rainfall, and high tides are likely in the affected area. BOM has warned that a second cold front will impact the region, and similar conditions are possible through July 14.

Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed or a lack of stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall; localized flooding occurred in the Perth metropolitan area during a similar system July 10. Coastal flooding is also possible due to abnormally high tides, especially between Shark Bay and Albany.

Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation. Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at regional airports and Perth Airport (PER). Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations in Freemantle, Bunbury, and Albany if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions.

Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and employees' inability to reach work sites. Electricity and telecommunications service disruptions are possible where significant flooding, strong winds, or landslides impact utility networks.

Advice

Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Allow extra time for travel in the affected area and plan alternative routes if necessary. Do not drive on flooded roads.

Resources

Australian Bureau of Meteorology
Perth Airport
Albany Port Authority
Bunbury Port Authority
Freemantle Ports