DFES warns residents and travellers of widespread cyclone risk
The Department of Fire and Emergency Services is urging communities as far south as Perth and the South West to prepare their homes and families for dangerous weather, as Severe Tropical Cyclone Olwyn moves down the Western Australian coast.
The Bureau of Meteorology is predicting that category 3 Olwyn will gradually weaken as it tracks south along the coast, through Carnarvon and Geraldton, but could still pose a danger when it reaches Perth during Saturday.
DFES Assistant Commissioner Darren Klemm said people need to prepare their homes and families, and keep up to date.
"We urge people, especially those in Geraldton, to get ready now by preparing their homes, ensuring they have emergency supplies and be sensible by taking shelter as the cyclone passes,” Assistant Commissioner Klemm said.
"People in Geraldton should be aware that shops could close early this evening, so you should stock up on essential provisions this afternoon.
"If a Yellow Alert is issued for Geraldton, people will need to stay indoors and businesses will close.”
"Those in the Perth metropolitan area should clean their gutters and ensure any loose items are secured.
"Anyone planning a weekend camping or road trip should reconsider, and anyone already camping should relocate to a safe area.
"People from Coral Bay to Wooramel, including Carnarvon, are under a Red Alert and need to remain inside until the All Clear is given.
"We encourage people to keep up to date by checking the DFES and Bureau of Meteorology websites, calling the Emergency Phone Line (13 DFES) or listening to local emergency broadcasts.”
Bureau of Meteorology WA Regional Director Mike Bergin said Olwyn was expected to move southwards through the South West Land Division on Saturday.
"There is the possibility of heavy rainfall, damaging squally winds and abnormally high tides along the west coast,” Mr Bergin said.
"This will include the Perth metro area.”
"There is particular concern for Geraldton, which has not seen a cyclone since Cyclone Hazel in 1979.”
DFES personnel and emergency services volunteers are monitoring developments and undertaking necessary preparations.
Incident management teams have been established to advise the community and help people that may be impacted by the cyclone.
For more information, visit the DFES website at www.dfes.wa.gov.au/.
Publications including Cyclone Smart and Prepare for a Storm are also available for download.
WHAT TO DO:
- Get ready for dangerous weather by preparing your home inside and out.
- Secure or remove loose material from around your home.
- Ensure your emergency kit is complete and includes a torch, battery-operated radio, food, mobile phone and essential medications.
- Fill up your fuel tank well before the storm is due to arrive.
- Check your family knows what to do.
- Avoid all non-essential travel.
- If youare planning travel over the weekend you should reconsider your plans.
IMPORTANT NUMBERS:
- For SES assistance call 132 500
- In a life threatening situation call 000
- For the latest weather information call 1300 659 210 or visit www.bom.wa.gov.au
- For information about road conditions and closures contact local Police or Main Roads WA on 138 138
- To report downed powerlines call Horizon Power on 13 23 51.
