Extent of Cyclone Narelle damage revealed as govt makes big update
Western Australian residents affected by Cyclone Narelle, which ravaged the state’s north, are eligible for up to $4000 in relief payments as harrowing scenes emerge from the cleanup.
Narelle caused widespread damage from strong winds, heavy rain and flooding, while Exmouth and Carnarvon were among the worst affected in the town.
Roger Cook’s government announced on Sunday a one-off payment of $4,000 for homes that are destroyed or become uninhabitable.
A one-time payment of $2,000 is also available for people whose homes sustained major damage.
“This was a violent, very powerful hurricane,” Mr Cook said.
“It has ravaged the northern part of our state, and while progress has been made, a significant number of people are still affected.”
The payments will cover emergency shelter, food, clothing and transportation costs.
Approximately 1,000 homes were left without electricity on Sunday.
The Bureau of Meteorology said the risk of further heavy rainfall and flooding had decreased.
But some roads were still flooded and communities were left alone.
Photos and videos posted on social media showed widespread flooding and destruction.
Warroora Station released images of buildings with roofs ripped off.
“We took a significant hit from the hurricane and lost some of our infrastructure, but we won’t stay here!” the station said.
“Our team has been working tirelessly to get the campsite and most of its accommodation ready for Easter.”
Bullara Station, in Exmouth Bay, said it had moved staff to a nearby station during the cyclone.
The video posted on Facebook showed floodwaters at the station and staff helping animals dry out the soil.
“What followed was an intense and frightening 24 hours of high winds, flooding and widespread damage throughout the property. The full extent is still emerging,” the station said in a Facebook post.
“We thank you for your patience and understanding as we take the time necessary to remediate and rebuild.
“Our timeline changes hourly, but we will keep you updated as much as we can.”
