Typhoon Narelle is forecast to strengthen to level 4-5 - super typhoon level with the strongest wind near the center reaching 195-205 km/h as it approaches the coast, according to the Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC).
On the night of June 25 (local time), the storm reached level 3 with gusts up to 165km/h, operating less than 300km from the Pilbara shore.
The worst-case scenario shows that the storm may make landfall near Exmouth with very strong intensity, while some other models forecast the storm to tilt south, passing through Denham at level 3. Due to the still volatile trajectory, the meteorological agency warns that this is a storm with unpredictable developments.
No matter where it makes landfall, the impact of Hurricane Narelle is still very widespread. Perth City is forecast to receive heavy rainfall from 50-100mm in the last two days of the week, posing a risk of flooding and disruption of tourism activities.
In fact, many outdoor events have had to be canceled or relocated. Some tours, entertainment activities and tourism transportation have also been adjusted to ensure safety. Ferry routes to the island are still operating but have allowed customers to cancel for free.
At coastal tourist destinations such as Kalbarri, Denham and Exmouth, many camping areas and accommodation establishments have proactively evacuated tourists and refused to accept new bookings.
Port Hedland International Airport has canceled all Qantas and Virgin flights on the evening of March 25. Port Hedland Airport said that Qantas and Virgin airlines have canceled all flights scheduled to depart on the morning of March 26.
Local authorities recommend that people and tourists closely monitor the latest storm forecast, limit travel to affected areas and comply with safety instructions.
Previously, Hurricane Narelle made landfall in northern Australia twice, then weakened into a low pressure on land, but strengthened again as it moved along the coast of northern Western Australia and was assessed to be able to cause "serious impacts" on many towns, according to the meteorological agency.
In the context of Hurricane Narelle continuing to strengthen and potentially causing gusts of over 200km/h, tourists planning to visit Western Australia in the coming days need to consider adjusting their itinerary to avoid risks.
