The latest tracking map for a tropical low near the Pilbara coast that may develop into a cyclone. Picture: Bureau of Meterology Source: PerthNow
RIO Tinto is closing its Cape Lambert and Dampier ports in WA's Pilbara region to prepare for a low-pressure weather system that could become a tropical cyclone tomorrow.
The miner said harbour masters were expected to close the Cape Lambert facility at Port Walcott and Dampier port later this afternoon to allow ships to move outside the affected area.
"Operations are continuing at this stage, but preparations are commencing to secure port and associated coastal infrastructure ahead of expected deteriorating conditions this evening,'' the company said in a statement.
The Port Hedland harbour, Australia's highest-tonnage port, is also being evacuated for closure.
The last vessel will set sail from its inner harbour at 3.30pm.
The low-pressure system brought heavy rain overnight and today across the region and is expected to continue into Wednesday.
The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) estimated at 2pm that the tropical low was 130km northeast of Port Hedland and 305km east-northeast of Karratha, and moving west-southwest at 11km/h.
The low may develop into a tropical cyclone tomorrow as it moves to the west just off the Pilbara coastline.
If the system reaches cyclone intensity, gales with wind gusts to 100km/h could develop between De Grey and Dampier during Wednesday and possibly extend west to Onslow on Thursday, the bureau said.
Squally thunderstorms are also expected with locally heavy rainfall.
Blue alert for Pilbara towns
The Department of Fire and Emergency Services has issued a blue alert - warning people to take precautions - for communities between De Grey and Mardie including Port Hedland, South Hedland, Whim Creek, Roebourne, Wickham, Point Samson, Karratha and Dampier.
A cyclone watch is also current for people in or near coastal communities from Mardie to Onslow, while the all-clear has been given to the communities of Pardoo and De Grey.
The Pilbara coast was on alert earlier this month as Cyclone Narelle threatened, although the system never reached the mainland and eventually petered out.
Hot and humid temperatures are forecast for much of the Pilbara and Kimberley regions this week, with thunderstorms possible.
Clear and sunny skies ahead
In Perth, sunny skies are here to stay and while the weather will be warm tomorrow with a predicted maximum of 36, the rest of the week will be sunny and fairly mild.
Australia Day looks set to be a hot one, with the mercury expected to reach 35C.
Tuesday 22 January - Max 36. Sunny. Winds easterly 25 to 30 km/h tending east to southeasterly 15 to 20 km/h in the morning then turning south to southwesterly 20 to 30 km/h in the late afternoon.
Wednesday 23 January - Min 21, Max 30. Sunny.
Thursday 24 January - Min 16, Max 32. Cloud clearing.
Friday 25 January - Min 17, Max 33. Sunny.
Saturday 26 January - Min 20, Max 35. Sunny.
Sunday 27 January - Min 21, Max 35. Sunny.
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