Tropical Cyclone Carlos, estimated to be 50km east northeast of Exmouth and 55km west southwest of Onslow, is moving southwest at 13km/h as a Category 2 cyclone this evening NZT.

Carlos currently lies near the coast about half way between Exmouth (population 2000 people) and Onslow (pop 600), and will continue to move in a southwesterly direction towards Exmouth.

A Cyclone WARNING is current for coastal areas from Dampier to Carnarvon and adjacent inland parts.

Destructive winds with gusts to 155km/h are possible along the coast just west of Onslow, extending to Exmouth today.

Heavy rain is expected to cause significant stream rises with possible localised flooding for Pilbara coastal streams. Conditions will ease from the east during Wednesday.

WeatherWatch.co.nz, Weatherzone