Get ready now for dangerous weather from Coral Bay to Geraldton

DFES placed this alert at 5:39am this morning. Please prepare now:

Tuesday 7 May 2013 – 5:39 AM If you live west of a line from Coral Bay to Gascoyne Junction to Murchison to Geraldton you need to get ready now for the dangerous weather coming this afternoon.   This includes people in, near and between Coral Bay, Cape Cuvier, Carnarvon, Denham, Gascoyne Junction, Kalbnarri, Northampton and Geraldton and surrounding areas.  

This is unusual weather for this time of year that could cause damage to homes and make travel dangerous.  

WHAT TO DO: DFES’s State Emergency Service (SES) 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

• If you are away from home contact family or friends to prepare your property • Unplug electrical appliances and avoid using landline telephones if there is lightning

• 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   WEATHER DETAILS: As at 4.48am on Tuesday 7 May 2013 the Bureau of Meteorology advises a strong cold front is approaching from the west and will move through the region from late this afternoon. Severe thunderstorms may accompany the passage of the front.  

Storms may be accompanied by damaging winds, heavy rainfall, which may lead to flash flooding and large hail. Storms could cause damage to homes and property.  

IMPORTANT NUMBERS:

• If your home  has been badly damaged by a storm call the SES on 132 500 • In a life threatening situation call 000

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

KEEP UP TO DATE: • Call 1300 657 209, visit www.dfes.wa.gov.au or listen to news bulletins.