UPDATE: Cyclone Mitchell has been downgraded but continues to unleash devastating winds and heavy rainfall along the coastline of Western Australia. The system, now categorized as a Category 2 cyclone, is still producing winds of up to 170 km/h, posing a significant threat to local communities.
Residents of Exmouth, a small resort town with fewer than 3,000 permanent inhabitants, are on high alert as the storm bears down. “I haven’t seen the town looking so clean and tidy for as long as I can remember,” said Matthew Niikkula, Exmouth Shire president, highlighting the unusual calm before the storm. He noted that the town hasn’t faced a cyclone of this intensity in a decade, warning that conditions could become “extremely frightening.”
The Bureau of Meteorology reports that Cyclone Mitchell was initially rated a severe Category 3 system before weakening on October 29, 2023. Senior meteorologist Angus Hines stated, “We have seen a reasonable amount of rainfall, but it’s the wind that has been most powerful.”
A Watch and Act alert is currently in effect from Onslow to Coral Bay, including Exmouth and the Ningaloo region. The cyclone is expected to track southeast, impacting areas such as Carnarvon, Denham, and Gascoyne Junction on Monday.
Residents are advised to prepare for heavy rainfall and storms that could lead to flash flooding and river inundations. Hines warned, “We expect significant road closures, which may isolate communities.” Wind gusts exceeding 150 km/h have the potential to uproot trees, damage properties, and cause widespread power outages.
As Cyclone Mitchell weakens while moving inland, it is anticipated to downgrade further to a Category 1 cyclone by late Monday. Hines emphasized, “This weather system will linger over the region for several days as it shifts southward through the interior of Western Australia.”
Residents are urged to stay informed and heed official warnings as the storm’s effects continue to unfold. With the potential for severe weather persisting, authorities are closely monitoring the situation to ensure public safety.
Stay tuned for more updates as this situation develops.
