CRISISBOOM

Tropical Cyclone Bianca continues to develop as it moves quickly to the west southwest over open waters west of Broome. The cyclone is expected to intensify further as it moves parallel to the Pilbara coast today and on Thursday.

Gales are expected for a period between Wallal and Whim Creek this afternoon, extending to Karratha late this afternoon or this evening and to Onslow and Exmouth during Thursday morning. DESTRUCTIVE WINDS with gusts to 160 kilometres per hour are possible between Whim Creek and Mardie later today, moving further west overnight.

Heavy rain is expected in coastal parts between Wallal and Karratha during this afternoon, extending further west overnight. Localised stream rises are likely but widespread flooding is not expected.

Residents of Pilbara coastal communities west of Whim Creek, including Wickham, Karratha, Dampier, Onslow and Exmouth are warned of the potential for a DANGEROUS STORM TIDE. Tides may rise significantly above the normal high tide mark with DAMAGING WAVES and DANGEROUS COASTAL FLOODING.

Ex-Tropical Cyclone Anthony is situated over the eastern Coral Sea and is slow moving. The system is forecast to develop a west northwesterly track tonight and into Wednesday while remaining below tropical cyclone strength.

A CYCLONE WATCH IS IN FORCE FOR NORFOLK ISLAND TROPICAL CYCLONE WILMA (CATEGORY 4) WAS CENTRED NEAR 23 South 176 East at 1730 NFT on 26-Jan-2011 or about 900 kilometres northeast of Norfolk Island. WILMA is moving west-southwest 16 knots but is expected to slow down and pass near Norfolk Island on Friday as it turns towards the south. There is the potential for heavy rain and winds of gale force or stronger to develop on Friday. As there is still uncertainty about the exact track and timing people are advised to keep up to date with weather forecasts.