Marble Bar floods: Heavy rains inundate Australia’s hottest town after days of thunderstorms

Heavy rainfall over the past 48 hours has inundated parts of the Pilbara, leading to rising water levels in several rivers and flooding roads.

Severe thunderstorms brewing in humid conditions resulted in a deluge, prompting a rapid rise in water levels in the Oakover, Nullagine, Shaw and Coongan rivers.

Several roads and the Karijini National Park were closed and flood warnings were put in place for Marble Bar, Telfer and Nullagine.

Marble Bar Primary School principal Adeline Monaghan posted a video online on Friday showing her difficultly driving through the Coongan River crossing.

“There was a short window to make the exit from Marble Bar so we took it. I had to get my teaching staff out. With the guidance of police and other experienced drivers, we were able to navigate the crossing safely,” Ms Monaghan said.

“This decision was not made lightly, but it was a necessary step to prioritise the wellbeing of everyone involved.”

Less than 24 hours later, WA Police deemed Coongan River “too dangerous to cross”.

A woman, aged in her 70s, had to be rescued on Saturday afternoon after she become stranded while driving across flood waters on Marble Bar Road, about 40km from the town.

She was described as in “good health” and DFES personnel had managed to recover her car from the waters using their fire appliance.

Despite being renowned for its extreme heat, Marble Bar can experience significant rainfall and flash flooding, particularly during the wet season.

Gauges in Coondewanna, about 130km west of Newman, recorded 77.4mm of rain in the three hours to 5.48am on Saturday morning.

“Showers and the chance of thunderstorms are forecast for the next few days. Heavy falls are again possible which may cause further river level rises,” the Bureau of Meteorology said.

The Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions issued an alert on Saturday advising people to avoid the area and urging those already there to leave immediately.

River levels were slowly easing in some areas on Saturday afternoon but residents were warned the stormy conditions could elevate them again.

Motorists in the area have been asked to reduce speed and drive carefully.

For the latest updates, check Emergency WA, contact local authorities, and check the the Main Roads Travel Map.