Cyclone Luana Intensifies to Category One Near Kimberley Coast

Residents of Western Australia’s West Kimberley region are bracing for severe weather as Tropical Cyclone Luana has intensified to Category One. This confirmation came from the Bureau of Meteorology early Saturday morning. The cyclone is projected to reach Category Two strength and make landfall near Dampier Peninsula today before 2 PM.

Tropical Cyclone Luana: Forecast and Impact

The cyclone will likely track southeast, passing Derby and eventually weakening as it moves inland. Duty forecaster Catherine Schelfhout warned of destructive wind gusts and heavy rainfall. Effects may include:

• Flooding in West Kimberley and western Sandy Desert.
• Possible dangerous storm tide, especially around Derby.

Residents are advised to remain vigilant, as heavy rain is expected to continue for several days. Subsequent flooding may affect the interior, Pilbara, and southeastern regions of WA later next week.

Community Preparedness

This cyclone marks the second storm to impact the region in less than a month. Many residents from the Dampier Peninsula, still recovering from the previous Cyclone Hayley, are evacuating.

Approximately 50 individuals from Djarindjin are relocating to Broome. Local resident Bernadette Angus expressed concern, stating, “It’s dangerous here.” Her experience with Cyclone Hayley leaves her wary of Luana’s potential effects.

Djarindjin community CEO Nathan McIvor reported that preparations are underway, though challenges remain. Many streets are still littered with debris from the last cyclone.

Preparations in Derby

Derby, located about 200 kilometers east of Broome, is taking precautions ahead of Luana. Preparing for potential flooding, local authorities are filling sandbags for residents. An evacuation center is set to open at the Derby Civic Centre at 8 AM.

Former shire president Elsia Archer emphasized the importance of vigilance. “You never know how quickly conditions can change,” she noted, advising residents to heed official warnings.

Road Closures and Safety Measures

Several roads are closed to ensure safety. These include:

• Cape Leveque Road from McGuigan Road.
• Gibb River Road between Kimbolton Road and the Pentecost River.
• Great Northern Highway from Roebuck to Willare.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed and follow safety guidelines as Tropical Cyclone Luana approaches the coastline of Western Australia.