Tropical Cyclone Errol Forecast: Expected to Strengthen Offshore

Tropical Cyclone Errol has formed off WA’s north coast and is expected to reach category three strength by Thursday. Residents, especially in Broome, are advised to stay informed due to potential impacts. Cyclone Errol features sustained winds of 65 kph and is moving westerly.

Tropical Cyclone Errol has developed off the northern coast of Western Australia and is expected to reach a category three intensity by Thursday morning. The Bureau of Meteorology has noted that while the cyclone may shift towards the Kimberley coast, its trajectory remains uncertain.

Residents along the Kimberley coast, especially in Broome, are being advised to stay informed about the cyclone’s developments. Cyclone Errol, classified as a category one system, formed Tuesday night and was reported to be 475 kilometers north-northwest of Broome, moving westerly at 13 kph with sustained winds of 65 kph and gusts up to 95 kph.

The cyclone is projected to escalate to a category two by Wednesday night and then to category three by Thursday, with expectations of a southeast turn towards the coastline, where it is likely to weaken. Bureau meteorologist Jessica Lingard indicated that while Errol will strengthen initially, it may face unfavorable conditions as it approaches land.

Residents and visitors in the region are being urged to prepare for inclement weather, which may include damaging winds and significant rainfall potentially leading to flooding and road closures. DFES Kimberley Superintendent Leon Gardiner emphasized the importance of staying informed and getting ready for potential severe weather impacts.

Previous occurrences include Tropical Cyclone Dianne, which made landfall in the Kimberley region last month as a category one system, resulting in heavy rain and subsequent flood warnings.

In summary, Tropical Cyclone Errol has formed off the coast of Western Australia and is anticipated to escalate to a category three system by Thursday. While it may impact the Kimberley coastal region, there is significant uncertainty regarding its path and strength as it approaches land. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and prepared for adverse weather conditions.

Original Source: www.abc.net.au