Tropical Cyclone Grant (03U)

Tropical Cyclone Grant (near Cocos Keeling Islands) update in plain English

Tropical Cyclone Grant is now a Category 1 system and is about 180km east of the Cocos (Keeling) Islands.

It is moving west-northwest, and is expected to pass close to the islands later today (Christmas Eve) or early on Christmas morning.

There is a warning in place for the Cocos (Keeling) Islands (not just a watch).

What to expect and when

Late morning (possible), but more likely from this afternoon: damaging winds could start, with gusts around 100km/h.

Late tonight into early Christmas Day: if the core passes close, there is a chance of very destructive wind gusts, potentially up to 140km/h.

Rain: heavy showers and squally bands are possible this morning, becoming more likely through the afternoon. Flash flooding is possible.

Coast: higher-than-normal tides around today and Thursday evening high tide, large waves, rough lagoon conditions and strong currents. Minor coastal flooding is possible in low-lying areas.

Intensity

It may strengthen to Category 2 later today, which would increase the risk of the stronger wind core getting closer to the islands.

Safety reminder

If you’re on Cocos, treat this like a serious close-pass cyclone: get indoors before conditions deteriorate, secure loose items, and stay away from beaches/lagoon edges during peak winds and high tides.

Follow local emergency updates via Emergency WA / emergency.wa.gov.au and the Cocos (Keeling) Islands Emergency Management Committee.