TROPICAL Cyclone Magda is expected to intensify further as it approaches the Kimberley coast, reaching category three intensity by tonight and possibly reaching category four intensity prior to impacting the coast.
There is the risk of very destructive winds with gusts to 260 kilometres per hour near the cyclone centre on Friday, by which time the cyclone should be close to the coast, between Kuri Bay and Cape Leveque.
Gales with gusts to 100 kilometres per hour may develop in coastal areas between Mitchell Plateau and Cape Leveque tonight as the cyclone approaches. Gales may extend to Derby during Friday and may reach as far south as Bidyadanga including Broome on Saturday.
Heavy rainfall, with falls in excess of 100mm, is expected near the cyclone track in the west Kimberley on Friday and Saturday.
Tides on Friday will be higher than expected between Mitchell Plateau and Cape Leveque with flooding of low lying areas possible.
FESA State Emergency Service (SES) advises of the following community alerts:
BLUE ALERT: People in coastal communities between Mitchell Plateau and Cape Leveque, including the communities of Mitchell Plateau, Kuri Bay, Cockatoo Island, Koolan Island, Derby, Cape Leveque, One Arm Point, Lombadina and Djarindjin need to prepare for cyclonic weather and organise an emergency kit including first aid kit, torch, portable radio, spare batteries, food and water.
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