Cyclone Olwyn flattens WA town
The WA coastal town of Carnarvon, 900km north of Perth, is expected to be declared a natural disaster zone following extensive damage by Cyclone Olwyn last Friday.
The state cabinet is expected to receive recommendations from Water Minister Mia Davies and Agriculture Minister Ken Baston about immediate financial relief.
Winds of up to 146kmh caused extensive damage along coastal areas in the Pilbara and the midwest coast, cutting water and power supplies to more than 5000 homes.
The Insurance Council of Australia has yet to receive data on insurance claims from Olwyn.
Limited water supply was restored to Carnarvon residents on Sunday, although about 1300 people in the town are still without power today.
Electricity has been restored to 90% of households in Exmouth.
Damage to crops is believed to be extensive and may qualify for immediate state government relief.