People within areas bounded by a loop from Kalbarri, Mt Magnet, Merredin, Katanning, Mandurah and the coast should prepare their homes and families for the severe storm coming any time after midday this afternoon.

The Bureau of Meteorology advises the worst of the front is likely to hit any time from midday onwards through to this evening and could bring damaging winds, large hail and possible flash flooding that could damage homes and make travel dangerous.

FESA’s State Emergency Service (SES) has these tips to help you and your family stay safe:

• Store or weigh down loose objects around your home like outdoor furniture that could be picked up and thrown by strong winds, causing damage or injury

• Prepare an emergency kit containing a portable radio, torch, spare batteries and first aid kit

• Ensure pets and animals are in a safe area

• Move vehicles under cover

• Unplug electrical appliances and avoid using landline telephones if there is lightning

• If you are away from home contact family or friends to prepare your property

• Construction site workers should store loose building material and tie down sheds

• Boat owners should securely moor their boats

• Campers should find safe shelter away from trees, powerlines, storm water drains and streams

After a storm SES volunteers make temporary repairs to homes that have been badly damaged, such as roofs that have been ripped off or large fallen trees on homes and cars. Please contact your insurance company to organise permanent repairs.

IMPORTANT NUMBERS:

• If your home or property has been badly damaged by a storm and you can’t fix it yourself, call the SES on 132 500

• In a life threatening situation call 000

• For information about road conditions contact Main Roads WA on 138 138

• To report downed power lines call Western Power on 13 13 51

• For the latest weather information visit www.bom.gov.au or call 1300 659 213

More information about what to do before, during or after a storm can be found at www.fesa.wa.gov.au