Prepare for Thunderstorms - Alert

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The following alert has been issued by the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES).


Time of issue: 08:09 AM
Date of issue: 09 August 2017

Get ready now for thunderstorms in parts of the Midwest-Gascoyne, Perth Metropolitan

If you live in the area from Geraldton to Perth including Eneabba, Jurien Bay, Lancelin and Yanchep you need to get ready now for the thunderstorms coming this afternoon.

A strong westerly flow and cold air mass in the wake of a cold front is developing over the south west of the state. The westerly flow will ease during this afternoon. Thunderstorms and showers associated with the cold air mass may produce DAMAGING WINDS to 100 kilometres per hour and could cause DAMAGE TO HOMES AND PROPERTY.

This weather is not unusual for this time of year, but could damage homes and make travel dangerous.

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


WEATHER DETAILS:

At 09/08/2017 07:29:00 the Bureau of Meteorology advised SEVERE WEATHER WARNING for DAMAGING WINDS For people in parts of the Central West and Lower West districts.


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 by calling Main Roads WA on 138 138 or visiting www.mainroads.wa.gov.au or your local Shire.

WHAT EMERGENCY SERVICES ARE DOING:

  • DFES is monitoring the situation.


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.

KEEP UP TO DATE:
Visit www.emergency.wa.gov.au, call 13 DFES (13 3337), follow DFES on Twitter: https://twitter.com/dfes_wa, Facebook: https://facebook.com/dfeswa/, listen to ABC Local Radio or listen to news bulletins. 

Updates will be provided when the situation changes.