Source: Bureau of Meteorology

For people in parts of Kimberley, Pilbara and North Interior districts.

Issued at 4:06 pm Friday, 20 December 2024.

Thunderstorms capable of producing damaging winds and heavy rain are occurring in the north of the state

Weather Situation: A hot airmass has generated a number of high-based thunderstorms in the Pilbara capable of producing damaging wind gusts. In the Kimberley, larger storms are also capable of generating heavy rain in addition to damaging wind gusts.

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce damaging winds over the next several hours in parts of the Pilbara and Kimberley districts. Locations which may be affected include Marble Bar, Millstream, Pannawonica, Sandfire, Shay Gap and Whim Creek.

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce damaging winds and heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding over the next several hours in parts of the Kimberley district. Locations which may be affected include Kuri Bay, Mitchell Plateau and Mount Barnett.

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding over the next several hours in parts of the Kimberley district. Locations which may be affected include Kalumburu.

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.