Residents of Western Australia are being advised to prepare for Cyclone Errol, which is set to impact the Kimberley Coast this afternoon. Currently classified as a Category 2 storm, Errol is anticipated to downgrade to a Category 1 upon landfall, with the projected area of impact spanning from Broome to Kuri Bay.
The storm is expected to bring damaging wind gusts, particularly affecting regions such as Beagle Bay, Derby, Cape Leveque, and Cockatoo Island. Winds could reach speeds of up to 130 km/h, posing a significant risk to local communities.
According to the Bureau of Meteorology’s latest update, the cyclone is located approximately 295 km north-west of Broome and 305 km west of Cockatoo Island, moving southeast at a speed of 14 km/h. Although Broome is not in the immediate path of the cyclone, nearby Beagle Bay residents are likely to experience severe winds later today as Errol shifts southward.
The cyclone’s strength is expected to decrease as it crosses the Kimberley Coast this evening, potentially affecting areas over Cape Leveque and Cockatoo Island. Alongside the strong winds, heavy rainfall is also forecast, continuing into Saturday morning.
Emergency services are urging the public to stay informed about the cyclone’s progression as it approaches the coast, highlighting the importance of preparation and safety measures during such extreme weather events.