Exmouth Hit Hard by Cyclone Narelle

Cyclone Narelle has caused significant damage in Exmouth, Western Australia.

Residential and Evacuation Centre Damage

Widespread destruction includes felled carports and partial roof removal from numerous houses.

The town's evacuation center, sheltering approximately 40 individuals, sustained damage with roof sheets detaching.

It was deemed unsafe to evacuate residents from the hall due to ongoing storm conditions.

Extensive Infrastructure Destruction

Infrastructure damage is extensive. A service station was destroyed, with windows smashed, fuel bowsers torn apart, and a telephone box flattened.

Trees have also fallen across roads.

A tidal surge resulted in canals overflowing and homes being submerged.

Peak Winds and Ongoing Response

Peak wind speeds reached 250 km/h during the morning.

Authorities have deployed rapid damage assessment teams, who will evaluate the destruction over the next 24 hours. The immediate priority is providing assistance to those most severely affected by the winds and rainfall.