A severe storm warning alert has been issued by the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) as three strong cold fronts are expected to hit the South West this weekend.
The front is expected to reach the Southwest Capes at about 8pm tonight and Perth at 1am tomorrow morning, bringing strong gusts and possible lightning with it.
BOM meteorologists have warned winds of up to 100km/h may be expected.
The winds are expected to develop from 6pm tonight at the Southwest Capes and then extend to an area southwest of a line from Mandurah to Windy Harbour at around 11pm before moving north.
The front is also expected to bring periods of heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding later this eveing and early Saturday morning.
A Flood Watch has also been issued for the South West and Lower West Forecast Districts.
Conditions are expected to ease from the west Saturday morning as the cold front moves inland.
Another front is expected to reach the southwest corner of the State Saturday evening and may produce another period of gusty winds and heavy rainfall.
A third, much stronger cold front, the strongest for the year, is expected to affect the southwest corner of the State from Sunday night.
Locations which may be affected include Bunbury, Busselton, Mandurah, Margaret River and the Perth metropolitan area.
BOM have said the weather conditions are not unusual for this time of year, but winds may cause damage to property and make road conditions hazardous.
The Department of Fire and Emergency Services has advised people should:
- - If outside find safe shelter away from trees, power lines, storm water drains and streams.
- - Close your curtains and blinds, and stay inside away from windows.
- - Unplug electrical appliances and do not use land line telephones if there is lightning.
- - If boating, swimming or surfing leave the water.
- - Be alert and watch for hazards on the road such as fallen power lines and loose debris.
- - Keep away from flooded drains, rivers, streams and waterways.
- - Be careful of fallen trees, damaged buildings and debris.
- - Be careful of fallen power lines. They are dangerous and should always be treated as live.
- - Assess your home, car and property for damage.
- - If damage has occurred take photos and contact your insurance company to organise permanent repairs.
- - If your home or property has significant damage, like a badly damaged roof or flooding, call the SES on 132 500.
Warnings are also available through TV and radio broadcasts, the Bureau's website at bom.gov.au or call 1300 659 213.
