Tropical Cyclone Sean has intensified into a category three system, bringing heavy rain and strong winds to Western Australia’s far north. The cyclone’s impact has been felt in towns like Karratha and Exmouth, with the storm creating significant disruptions in the region. As it moves further off the coast, authorities continue to monitor the situation closely.
Figure 1: Forecasted path of “Severe Tropical Cyclone” Sean as issued at 11:52 am AWST on January 20th 2025 (Credit: AUSTRALIAN BUREAU OF METEOROLOGY)
Cyclone Sean’s Path and Effects
Severe Tropical Cyclone Sean is located around 235 kilometres north-west of Exmouth. The cyclone is moving in a south-westerly direction, staying offshore. Despite its distance from the coast, the cyclone has already had a substantial impact on the area, including breaking a nearly 20-year-old rainfall record in Karratha. Local weather gauges recorded over 270 millimetres of rain in just one day.
Karratha has also experienced significant flooding, with emergency services responding to dozens of calls. Reports indicate that floodwaters have inundated homes and streets, with some residents needing sandbags and assistance for water rescues. Local authorities have been on high alert, especially with sustained wind gusts reaching up to 120 kilometres per hour.
Also Read: Hottest Summer Weather in Five Years: Extreme Heatwave Hits Australia
Impact on Infrastructure and Communities
The wild weather caused major disruptions to infrastructure in the region. The North West Coastal Highway remains open between Karratha and South Hedland, though caution is advised. However, the road between Karratha and the Pannawonica turn-off has been closed due to flooding. The cyclone’s strong winds have uprooted trees, and some cars have been trapped in floodwaters.
Hundreds of people have been affected by power outages. While Karratha has been reconnected to the grid, around 490 customers in Exmouth still face power disruptions. Emergency services continue to deal with flood-related incidents and have responded to significant calls for help overnight.
A Karratha resident reported that water levels were rising quickly, nearly reaching her home. She described how the rainfall came in heavy bursts and was unable to drain fast enough. Another resident assisted a person whose car was submerged in floodwaters.
Forecast and Warnings
Cyclone Sean is expected to intensify into a category four system before weakening as it moves south into cooler waters. Though the cyclone is not expected to make landfall, authorities continue to warn residents to remain vigilant. Emergency services, including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES), have urged locals to stay prepared and remain alert as the storm progresses.
The cyclone’s unpredictable nature has led to ongoing assessments. Authorities have urged people to monitor local news and stay tuned to emergency service updates. The situation remains fluid, with cyclone paths subject to sudden changes.
Cyclone Impact on Karratha and Roebourne
The cyclone’s heavy rainfall has resulted in extreme conditions for Karratha and surrounding areas. The region has experienced rapid flooding, with water running down streets and infiltrating properties. Local managers and residents have described how the storm caused extensive rainfall that surpassed local expectations. Some residents report that they have not seen rainfall like this in years.
While the storm has created significant challenges, it has also benefited the region in the long term. The rainfall is expected to revitalise creeks and waterholes, potentially leading to better conditions for local agriculture. For example, Karratha Station reported that the heavy rainfall would provide much-needed growth for livestock in the area.
Perth and the South Under Heatwave Conditions
While the northern part of the state grapples with Cyclone Sean, Western Australia’s southern regions, including Perth, are experiencing extreme heat. A heatwave warning has been issued, with temperatures expected to soar above 40 degrees Celsius for several days. The forecast predicts that Perth could reach a high of 44°C, marking the hottest day in years.
The heatwave has led to high fire risks, with warnings in place for much of the state’s lower half. Perth residents have been advised to stay cool and avoid outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day. Health authorities have also cautioned vulnerable groups, including the elderly, to stay indoors and keep hydrated.
The heatwave is attributed to a deepening trough along the west coast, which has caused the temperatures to rise sharply. The Bureau of Meteorology has forecast that temperatures will remain high throughout the week, with little relief overnight. Perth’s minimum temperatures are also expected to remain elevated, possibly setting a new record for the highest minimum temperature.
Cyclone and Heatwave Impact Combined
The simultaneous occurrence of Cyclone Sean in the north and an intense heatwave in the south has created a challenging situation across Western Australia. Emergency services are on high alert as the state faces extreme weather conditions on both fronts.
While the cyclone is expected to stay off the coast, the rainfall and flooding it has caused have posed significant challenges for affected communities. On the other hand, the blistering heat in Perth and surrounding areas raises concerns about heat-related illnesses and fire hazards.
Authorities continue to urge people to stay updated on weather conditions through official channels. Emergency services remain on standby to assist residents affected by both the cyclone and the heatwave.
Conclusion
Tropical Cyclone Sean has caused significant disruptions in Western Australia’s northern regions, while the southern parts of the state endure extreme heat. Although the cyclone is moving away from the coast, the impact of the storm continues to be felt in affected communities. Residents in areas such as Karratha and Exmouth have faced flooding, power outages, and strong winds, with emergency services working around the clock to provide assistance.
As the storm weakens and moves south, authorities remain vigilant. Perth and surrounding areas are expected to continue experiencing scorching temperatures, with heatwave conditions likely to persist throughout the week. The combination of cyclonic rainfall and extreme heat highlights the unpredictable nature of Western Australia’s weather and the need for residents to remain prepared and informed.