Cyclone Mitchell Endangers Lives and Homes with No Time to Flee

As Cyclone Mitchell barrels down the Western Australian coast, lives and properties are in jeopardy. Many residents have been warned that it is too late for them to evacuate. The cyclone, classified as a category 2 storm, was reported near Exmouth early today and is expected to make landfall close to Coral Bay later in the day.

Cyclone Mitchell’s Path and Impact

This morning, officials issued a shelter-in-place order extending from Coral Bay to Minilya Roadhouse, as well as north of Ningaloo. This warning underscores the cyclone’s potential to produce dangerously high tides and storm surges. The Department of Fire and Emergency Services cautioned residents against entering floodwaters via social media.

Wind and Rain Forecast

At 3 AM local time, Cyclone Mitchell was reported to have winds reaching 100 km/h, with gusts peaking at 140 km/h. The storm is unleashing powerful winds and heavy rain along the north-west coast, particularly from Exmouth to areas south of Denham. Forecasts predict that the region could receive between 100 mm to 200 mm of rainfall within 24 hours.

Preparations and Evacuations

Residents in north-west Western Australia are on high alert as Cyclone Mitchell approaches. Exmouth Shire President Matthew Niikkula noted that the community has made substantial preparations for the storm. Approximately 300 homes and businesses are currently without power, with Horizon Energy crews unable to conduct repairs safely.

Current Conditions and Road Closures

• Karratha experienced winds of 100 km/h and received 90 mm of rain overnight.
• Legendre Island recorded winds reaching 169 km/h, while Barrow Island experienced gusts of 148 km/h.
• Evacuations have occurred at several mine sites and the Blowholes campsite near Carnarvon.
• The North West Coastal Highway has been closed to heavy vehicles and holiday traffic south of Carnarvon.

WA Premier Roger Cook emphasized the importance of preparing for the cyclone and stated, “It’s just a question of battening down the hatches and allowing the cyclone to run its course.” Despite Cyclone Mitchell being downgraded to a category 2 storm, authorities are taking precautions as the storm is still expected to exert significant impacts.

As the residents brace themselves, the situation remains critical, with ongoing monitoring from meteorological authorities.