Dangerous storm surges, destructive winds and prolonged rain are all expected to batter WA's Pilbara region as the slow-moving tropical cyclone Veronica nears the state.
The category four system is predicted to cross the coast on Sunday.
"Very destructive wind gusts over 165km/h are expected near the cyclone's centre as it approaches the coast," Bureau of Meteorology senior forecaster James Ashley said on Saturday.
Authorities says the storm surge impact is the biggest concern. Source: SBS
Gales were expected along the Pilbara coast between Pardoo and Mardie with winds to increase tonight as the cyclone moved closer.
The forecaster said Veronica was unique because it was a slow-moving system that would bring a prolonged period of destructive winds and heavy rain.
"We are expecting a prolonged period - 12 hours or more - of destructive winds near the core of the cyclone, we're expecting a prolonged period of heavy rainfall so flooding is going to be an issue," Mr Ashley said.
"We're expecting the potential for very dangerous storm surge as the tropical cyclone pushes water up against the low lying coastal areas."
Storm surges are most likely at Port Hedland and surrounding communities with people in the area being provided with surge maps to prepare.
Destructive winds and heavy rain are forecast to continue for a 12-hour period. Source: SBS
Western Australia's fire and emergency services chief superintendent praised the community for their response to the cyclone but said it was a significant event.
"We are looking down the barrel of a significant tropical cyclone impact," chief superintendent Paul Carr said.
"The storm surge impact is of concern to us. It's very serious," he said.
He said the surge was from seawater forced inland because of the powerful cyclone and could inundate communities, and often carried debris.
Rain has already started to fall in the region, with the city of Karratha receiving 19mm since 9am (AWST) on Saturday.
Rivers are expected to rise significantly and an initial flood warning has been issued for coastal rivers in the region.
A number of roads are set to be closed from midday, including portions of North West Coastal Highway, Great Northern Highway and Karratha Tom Price Road.
A Cyclone Red Alert has been issued for Pardoo to Whim Creek extending east but not including Marble Bar in the Pilbara.
People are advised to remain inside and shelter, keep their emergency kit and to stay away from doors and windows.
People in the Port Hedland area have been urged to check storm surge modelling maps and start preparing to relocate to a safer place if affected.
The system is expected to remain a category four for the next 24 hours before weakening to a category two on Monday.
The last category four tropical cyclone to impact the WA coast was Christine in December 2013.
Veronica is the third tropical cyclone for the season.
