11/4/96
According to reports from the State Emergency Service, wind gusts in excess of 250 kmh during Cyclone Olivia have caused extensive damage to approximately 50 homes at Pannawonica. The police station and medical centre were also damaged.
Emergency Services Minister Bob Wiese said the State Emergency Service had reports of building and structural damage from Tom Price, Newman, Paraburdoo and Karratha.
"The emergency services are currently on standby to render further assistance if necessary to help these communities recover from the aftermath of one of the most destructive cyclones on record," Mr Wiese said.
He said a major problem was the lack of power in some of these centres, which impacted on communications and water supplies. It had been reported that the damage caused by the cyclone could cut power supplies in Pannawonica for up to three weeks.
"The electric generators will bring immediate relief to residents, and especially those people with young families with the return of cooking, heating and water services," Mr Wiese said.
He said there would be ongoing liaison with the affected communities to provide other forms of emergency assistance if warranted.
The Minister commended the work of the SES, local authorities and residents in their preparation for the cyclone season.
"This has resulted in the Pilbara and Kimberley communities undertaking extensive pre-cyclone awareness campaigns which has reduced the unnecessary damage which has occurred during previous cyclone seasons," he said.
Media contact: Mark Thompson 222 9595 / 322 2311
