Source: Bureau of Meteorology

Issued at 3:08 pm Monday, 18 November 2024.

Severe thunderstorms developing through the Pilbara and Gascoyne.

Weather Situation: A moist and unstable airmass combined with a surface trough is leading to the development of severe thunderstorms through Pilbara and Gascoyne

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce damaging winds in the warning area over the next several hours. Locations which may be affected include Paraburdoo and Tom Price.

A 96 km/h wind gust was observed at Booldeega Airport at 2:53pm.

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services advises that 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 there is flooding, create your own sandbags by using pillow cases filled with sand and place them around doorways to protect your home.
* If boating, swimming or surfing leave the water.
* Do not drive into water of unknown depth and current.
* Slow down and turn your headlights on.
* Be alert and watch for hazards on the road such as fallen power lines and loose debris.
* If it is raining heavily and you cannot see, pull over and park with your hazard lights on until the rain clears.