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Category 3 Mitchell Threatens WA Coast
8 Feb
Summary
- Category 3 Cyclone Mitchell nears Pilbara coast.
- Landfall expected between Exmouth and Onslow.
- Gale-force winds and flash floods possible.
Severe Tropical Cyclone Mitchell, maintaining Category 3 intensity, is tracking southwest along the Pilbara coast. As of Sunday morning, the cyclone was located west of Karratha with winds near its center reaching 120km/h and gusts up to 165km/h.
Landfall is anticipated between Exmouth and Onslow late Sunday evening or early Monday morning. A warning zone is in effect from Karratha to Cape Cuvier, where gale-force or damaging winds are most likely, with potential for destructive gusts up to 195km/h.
Residents in affected areas are advised to shelter indoors. The cyclone is also bringing moderate to heavy rain, increasing the risk of flash flooding along the west Pilbara coast and contributing to severe thunderstorms in southeastern states.
On average, Australia experiences about 10 tropical cyclones per season, with 3 to 4 making landfall. While fewer cyclones are predicted with climate change, the proportion of severe events may rise.
