Tropical Cyclone Stan forecast to cross the WA coast near Port Hedland

29/01/2016

The Bureau of Meteorology is currently monitoring the development of Category 1 Tropical Cyclone Stan north-northwest of Port Hedland in Western Australia’s Pilbara coastline.

The cyclone is expected to strengthen to Category 2 intensity and make landfall tomorrow (Saturday) between Pardoo and Karratha, near Port Hedland.

The Bureau has issued a Tropical Cyclone Warning for communities from Bidyadanga (south of Broome) to Mardie (south of Karratha).

Gales may develop in coastal areas in the Warning Zone during Friday evening and into Saturday morning. Destructive winds are also possible on Saturday.

Heavy rainfall associated with the system is likely to develop over the Pilbara and far western Kimberley today, and extend further inland as the system continues to track southwards on Saturday.

Rainfall totals of between 150mm – 250mm with heavier localised falls are predicted in the area over the weekend.

The Bureau’s Tropical Cyclone Warning Centre in Perth will continue to monitor the situation closely, providing regular warning updates to local emergency services (DFES), and keeping the community informed through regular media and social media channels.

The Bureau is using Twitter to disseminate significant weather information for the community. Follow us @BOM_WA. The Bureau's website remains the most up-to-date and comprehensive official source of information. This tropical cyclone season we’re using hashtags starting #Cyclone, e.g. #CycloneStan.

For the latest Tropical Cyclone Warning information go to: www.bom.gov.au/cyclone

To view the satellite loop http://satview.bom.gov.au/