Severe Weather Warning Issued for Norfolk Island: Heavy Rainfall and Damaging Winds Expected

Alert Details

The Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued a Severe Weather Warning (IDN28503) for Norfolk Island. The warning is classified as high severity and covers threats of heavy rainfall and damaging winds.

Affected Areas

The warning specifically impacts Norfolk Island. The weather situation is driven by a low pressure system currently located off the southern Queensland coast, which is extending a trough over the island.

What You Should Do

The Norfolk Island Police have issued the following safety instructions for residents:

• Keep clear of fallen power lines.
• Stay indoors and away from windows.
• Ensure children remain indoors.
• Keep clear of creeks and waterways.
• For emergency help during the storm, contact the Norfolk Police at 000 or +6723 22 222.

Expected Conditions

Residents should prepare for the following hazards:

• Heavy Rainfall: 24-hour rainfall totals in excess of 100 mm are possible.
• Damaging Winds: Wind gusts reaching up to 100 km/hr are expected as the low pressure system moves closer to the island.

Timeline

• Monday, March 9: A trough begins to extend over the island late in the day.
• Tuesday, March 10: Heavy rainfall is expected to impact the island throughout the day. Damaging winds may begin late Tuesday.
• Wednesday, March 11: Damaging winds are most likely during this period as the low centre moves close to the island. Rainfall is expected to ease.
• Thursday, March 12: Winds are expected to ease below the warning threshold late Wednesday or during Thursday.