Cyclone Narelle: How to Prepare for the Incoming Storm

WA FAF
Mar 27
2 min read

As we move into the weekend, the Bureau of Meteorology has issued severe weather warnings for much of the WA coastline. Severe Tropical Cyclone Narelle is currently tracking south-west and is expected to impact communities from the North West Cape down through the Gascoyne and Mid West regions.

Whether you are in Exmouth, Carnarvon, Denham, or further south toward Geraldton and Perth, now is the time to finalise your preparations. Cyclones are unpredictable; even if you aren’t in the direct "eye" of the storm, the associated heavy rainfall and flash flooding can be just as dangerous.

1. Secure Your Property (Do This NOW)

High winds turn everyday items into dangerous missiles.

Tie it down: Secure boats, caravans, and trailers.
Clear the yard: Bring in outdoor furniture, gardening tools, trampolines, and loose toys.
Check your roof: Ensure gutters are clear of debris to prevent overflow and structural water damage.
Windows: Close and fasten shutters. If you don't have them, use plywood or heavy-duty tape (though tape is a last resort and less effective than boarding).

2. Prepare for Flooding

Narelle is carrying a massive amount of water. Flash flooding is a high risk for the Gascoyne and Pilbara regions.

Sandbagging: Place sandbags (or pillowcases filled with sand) in doorways and over floor drains/toilets to prevent sewage backflow.
Move Valuables: Lift electronics, important documents, and sentimental items onto beds and tables. Ensure they are unplugged as this could damage the device.
Vehicles: Park cars under solid cover and away from trees or power lines.

Emergency kit. Clothes and bags packed in preparation for Cyclone Narelle

3. Finalise Your Emergency Kit

Assume the worst - you lose power and water for several days. Your kit should include:

Water: At least 3 litres per person per day (don't forget pets!).
Food: 5–7 days of non-perishable, easy-to-open food.
Power: A battery-operated radio (essential for updates if the internet goes down), torches, and spare batteries.
Connectivity: Fully charge all phones and power banks today.

4. Know Your Alerts

Stay tuned to Emergency WA and the Bureau of Meteorology.

Blue Alert: Get ready. Start your preparations.
Yellow Alert: Action required. Finalise preparations and be ready to shelter.
Red Alert: Danger. Take shelter immediately. Do not go outside.

5. Pets and Livestock

Your animals are just as vulnerable as you are.

Bring pets inside: Secure them in a safe, internal room with plenty of food and water.
Livestock: If you are on a rural property, move livestock to higher ground and away from potential falling trees or power lines.

Stay Safe, WA: Never attempt to drive through floodwaters. If it’s flooded, forget it.

Need help?

Life-threatening emergencies: Call 000.
SES assistance (flooding/storm damage): Call 132 500.
Emergency Information: 13 3337
Notify your insurance company of property damage. If you cannot remember the name of your insurance company or the details are not available, you can contact the Insurance Council of Australia: 1300 728 228
Disaster Relief Hotline 1800 032 965.
WA Flood and Fire - 24/7 Emergency Storm & Flood Response: 0499 944 959