The Pilbara is a semi arid region characterised by high temperatures and low, variable rainfall. Rainfall and temperature extremes are not uncommon. During the summer months, the temperature can rise to around 47 degrees Centigrade in most centres. Minimum temperatures are consistently lower, falling to 11 degrees Centigrade in the coldest months. Between October and April, the temperature throughout the region reaches or exceeds 32 degrees Centigrade almost every day.
Tropical cyclones bring heavy rainfall.
However, there are often long periods without rain. On average, two tropical cyclones cross the Western Australian coastline during each cyclone season. Cyclone 'season' is from the beginning of November to the end of April. The section of coastline between Broome and Karratha has had the greatest frequency of coastal crossings and is the most cyclone-prone region of the entire Australian coastline. It is also one of the most threatened regions in the world.