Cyclone Narelle Update

Published on Thursday, 26 March 2026 at 7:59:09 PM

Cyclone Narelle Update

Issued: 8.00pm Thursday 25th March 2026    

Key messages

  • Prepare now and monitor official warnings via Emergency WA.
  • Shire facilities: the Administration Building is closed, and the Nabawa Refuse Site is closed this Sunday.
  • Evacuation centre available: Geraldton Amateur Basketball Stadium (Eighth Street, Wonthella) opens 10:00am Friday 27 March.
  • Travel and flood safety: avoid Durawah Road (roadworks), avoid river crossings where possible, and check road closure updates (including North West Coastal Highway).

The Shire of Chapman Valley is advising residents of several important updates as Tropical Cyclone Narelle approaches. Please read carefully and share with neighbours and family.

Advice current for: south of Overlander Roadhouse to Jurien Bay, including the Abrolhos Islands and coastal islands.

There is no immediate danger; however, residents should begin preparing now for potentially dangerous weather conditions and stay up to date with official warnings.

What you should do now

  • Prepare your property: secure boats, caravans, trailers, garden sheds, outdoor furniture, rainwater tanks, LPG bottles, loose materials and rubbish around your home and workplace.
  • Check your emergency kit: include canned food and water for 5–7 days, first aid kit, essential medications, cash, and a battery-operated radio with spare batteries.
  • Make (or review) your plan: ensure everyone in the household knows what to do. Create a plan via Emergency WA (website or app).
  • Understand warning levels: know the cyclone warning levels and the steps required at each level.
  • If you are travelling in the warning area: consider leaving the area early.

Evacuation centre (Geraldton)

If you need to leave your property for safety, you can go to the evacuation centre below.

Location: Geraldton Amateur Basketball Stadium, Eighth Street, Wonthella.

Opens: 10:00am, Friday 27 March.

If you do not feel safe at your property, you may evacuate to the centre from this time.

Please bring:

  • Bedding, hygiene products, snacks and food (especially if you have dietary requirements)
  • Essential items such as medications and identification

Pets: Pets (except recognised guide dogs for the blind) are not permitted inside evacuation centres for health and safety reasons—please make alternative arrangements.

Shire service and facility updates

  • Shire Administration Building: closed from Friday 27 March until it is safe to reopen. Staff will be working remotely; please leave a message on the answering machine.
  • Nabawa Refuse Site: closed this Sunday due to unsafe conditions. Extra opening days will be considered after the cyclone has passed.
  • Roadworks: please avoid Durawah Road due to unfinished roadworks.
  • River crossings: avoid all river crossings where possible, particularly during heavy rainfall and flooding.

Western Regions Emergency Information (WhatsApp)
If you live in the Western Regions of the Shire of Chapman Valley, please join this group to receive important emergency updates during bushfires, storms and other local incidents.

To be added to the WhatsApp emergency information group: please contact Katie Low or Emma Rodney. You will need to download WhatsApp on your phone, set it up, and then provide Katie or Emma with your mobile number so they can add you.

This group will share:

  • Local warnings and situation updates
  • Road closures and evacuation information
  • Recovery contacts and links to official emergency channels

Please keep this group for emergency information only (no general chat).

Please share this information with neighbours, friends and family in the Western Regions so they can stay informed as well.

The Shire is working closely with relevant agencies to ensure the community is prepared for the expected conditions and appreciates your patience as we manage the impacts of Tropical Cyclone Narelle.

Power and electrical safety

Western Power is preparing for forecast extreme weather associated with Tropical Cyclone Narelle. If you see any damage to the network, stay at least 8 metres clear and call Western Power on 13 13 51.

Schools

All schools are closed due to Tropical Cyclone Narelle. No one is allowed on site unless authorised by the Hazard Management Agency (DFES). Parents and carers should keep children at home and monitor Emergency WA and school communications for further updates.

Roads

  • North West Coastal Hwy: from Carnarvon to Ajana East Rd and Kalbarri Rd – closed due to cyclone conditions.
  • Advance notice: North West Coastal Highway from Eliza Shaw Drive, Geraldton to Ajana Kalbarri Road will be closed northbound from 6:00pm, Friday 27 March due to cyclone conditions.

Stay informed

Further information about preparations, community updates and changes to services and facilities will be shared on the Shire website and social media over the coming days. Up-to-date information can only be found at https://www.emergency.wa.gov.au/   

Please stay safe and check on neighbours where appropriate.

Back to All News