Ex-Tropical Cyclone Narelle Threatens Western Australia with Heavy Rain and Strong Winds

Western Australia is bracing for the impact of ex-Tropical Cyclone Narelle, which is forecast to bring heavy rainfall, flash flooding, and damaging winds to parts of the state’s north coast. The system, which recently impacted the Northern Territory, is expected to cross the Kimberley coast tonight and continue southwestward.

Current Status and Forecast

As of Monday, March 23, 2026, ex-Tropical Cyclone Narelle is a tropical low over the Joseph Bonaparte Gulf, near the Western Australia/Northern Territory border, moving west at 16 kilometers per hour. The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) forecasts that the low could redevelop into a cyclone as it moves west, potentially reaching category four status by Wednesday.

Warning and Watch Zones

A warning zone is currently in place between Mitchell Plateau and the WA/NT border. A watch zone extends across the Kimberley from Beagle Bay to southwest of Mitchell Plateau. Severe weather warnings have also been issued for areas between Kuri Bay and Beagle Bay, as well as Wallal Downs west of Port Hedland.

Expected Conditions

Gale-force winds with gusts up to 100km/h are expected today and tomorrow. Heavy rainfall is also anticipated, with potential accumulations of up to 200 millimeters, which could lead to flash flooding. The Bureau of Meteorology projects rainfall totals between 80 and 100 millimeters, peaking at 140mm in certain areas.

Impact on the Northern Territory

Ex-Tropical Cyclone Narelle recently impacted the Northern Territory, bringing heavy rainfall and flooding to the region. Katherine experienced significant flooding, and major flood warnings remain in effect for the Upper Adelaide River, Daly River, Katherine and Waterhouse Rivers.

Safety Advice

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) advises the following safety precautions:

• Seek safe shelter away from trees, power lines, storm water drains, and streams.
• Close curtains and blinds and stay inside, away from windows.
• Unplug electrical appliances and avoid using landline telephones during lightning.
• If boating, swimming, or surfing, leave the water.
• Be alert for hazards on the road, such as fallen power lines and debris.
• Keep away from flooded drains, rivers, streams, and waterways.
• Be cautious of fallen trees, damaged buildings, and debris.
• Treat fallen power lines as live and dangerous.

Preparation and Resources

Residents are advised to:

• Review their emergency plans and ensure all household members know what to do.
• Check emergency kits for essential items like a first aid kit and a battery-powered AM/FM radio.
• Monitor the Emergency WA website for updates.

Further Information

For more information and updates, visit the Bureau of Meteorology website or tune into TV and radio broadcasts. You can also call 1300 659 210.