Tropical Cyclone Mitchell expected to impact north-west WA coast as category 3 storm

Officials say Severe Tropical Cyclone Mitchell is maintaining category 3 strength about 30 km west of Karratha with 120 km/h winds and gusts to 165 km/h; emergency warnings cover Whim Creek to Onslow and landfall is expected between Exmouth and Onslow late Sunday or early Monday.

Severe Tropical Cyclone Mitchell is moving southwest parallel to the Pilbara coast and is expected to keep category 3 strength as it approaches land. The Bureau of Meteorology reported the system was about 30 km offshore west of Karratha with strong winds and recorded high gusts on nearby islands. EmergencyWA has issued cyclone emergency warnings along part of the coast, and forecasts indicate landfall between Exmouth and Onslow late Sunday or early Monday. Authorities and meteorologists reported that heavy rain, rising rivers and high tides are part of the expected impacts. Key facts: - The Bureau of Meteorology said Mitchell is expected to maintain category 3 intensity while moving southwest near the Pilbara coast. - The system was located about 30 km west of Karratha with reported sustained winds near 120 km/h and gusts to around 165 km/h; strong gusts were recorded at nearby islands. - EmergencyWA issued cyclone emergency warnings from Whim Creek to Onslow, and forecasts place landfall between Exmouth and Onslow late Sunday or early Monday. Summary: Local forecasts expect heavy rain, possible flash flooding, and higher-than-normal tides along the west Pilbara coast, with hazards extending into the Gascoyne region. Landfall timing is reported for late Sunday or early Monday, and authorities have put emergency warnings in place as the situation develops.