Karratha mural sparks conversations ahead of cyclone season

A colourful mural has been unveiled in the centre of Karratha to raise awareness of important changes to WA’s community warning system ahead of the northern cyclone season. The Department of Fire and Emergency Services mural has been painted in yellow, orange and red to depict the three warning levels of the recently implemented Australian Warning System: Advice, Watch and Act, and Emergency Warning. “What we’re going to see as the Advice, Watch and Act, and Emergency Warning comes out should a cyclone impact this area, each of those levels of warning will come with an action statement that will better inform the community about the actions and the preparation activities that they need to take,” Fire and Emergency Services Commissioner Darren Klemm said. “This is a significant change that will better inform the community and allow them to make better informed decisions should a cyclone be impacting this part of the State. “My best advice for everybody in the North West is to make sure they can access Emergency WA. There is an extensive amount of information on Emergency WA that can really guide and educate people about the new Australian warning system.” Mr Klemm also advised residents to devise a cyclone game plan. “Having an emergency kit is absolutely critical. Think about prescription medication, what you are going to do with your pets and make sure you know where your evacuation centres are,” he said. “Also think about prep work that can be done now, such as cleaning up around your home and sealing your doors and windows.” Mural artist Jerome Davenport said it would act as a conversation starter for locals and travellers. “The spot was chosen as it is central to the CBD in Karratha; it’s a high value spot with a lot of foot and vehicle traffic,” he said. “A majority of the mural is spray painted and air-brushed. It was long process in the Pilbara heat, but the overall outcome is great and represents the DFS team members as well as the warning system.” The northern cyclone season typically runs from November to April, with the Bureau of Meteorology predicting the first significant rains are likely to be later than usual.