Severe weather is on the way for parts of the Great Southern, South West, and Lower South West of WA, including Bunbury, Busselton, Mandurah, Margaret River, Manjimup, and Walpole.
Heavy rainfall and damaging winds are possible from Monday night as a strong cold front approaches the South West corner of the state.
Damaging winds, averaging 60 to 70 kilometres per hour, with peak gusts to 100 km/h, could cause damage to homes and properties.
Locally dangerous winds with peak gusts in excess of 125 km/h are also possible southwest of a line from Mandurah to Walpole.
Damaging winds are expected to develop around the South West Capes after 8pm on Monday evening and extend throughout the warning area by around 11pm.
Damaging surf conditions which could cause beach erosion are likely to develop from Tuesday between Bunbury and Walpole, and tides are expected to be higher across much of WA on Tuesday morning.
Conditions are expected to ease on Tuesday morning however, heavy rainfall, small hail and squally thunderstorms may also persist until early Tuesday afternoon.
The Bureau of Meteorology advised the weather was not unusual for the time of year, but could damage homes and make travel dangerous.
DFES will be monitoring the situation as the weather develops and residents can keep updated by visiting www.emergency.wa.gov.au or call 13 DFES.
WHAT TO DO:
DFES has these tips to help you and your family get ready now:
- 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
- Ensure your emergency kit is complete including a battery operated radio, torch, spare batteries and first aid kit
- Ensure pets and animals are in a safe area
- Move vehicles under cover
- Boat owners should securely moor their boats
- Campers should find safe shelter away from trees, powerlines, storm water drains and streams
- Unplug electrical appliances and avoid using landline telephone if there is lightning.
- If you are away from home contact family or friends to prepare your property.
ROAD CLOSURES AND CONDITIONS:
Some roads may be closed
Take extra care on the roads and do not drive into water of unknown depth and current.
Road information may also be available from Main Roads WA by calling 138 138 or visiting travelmap.mainroads.wa.gov.au or by contacting the local Shire.
IF YOU NEED ASSISTANCE:
- If your home has been badly damaged by a storm, call the SES on 132 500
- In a life threatening situation call 000
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 or cars.
Please contact your insurance company to organise permanent repairs.