Source: Bureau of Meteorology

For people in parts of Gascoyne and Pilbara districts.

Issued at 1:21 am Wednesday, 6 March 2024.

Severe thunderstorms occurring over central WA

Weather Situation: A very moist environment exists across much of Western Australia. A trough extending across the South Interior from the Gascoyne district is triggering severe thunderstorms with heavy rainfall this morning.

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding in the warning area over the next several hours. Locations which may be affected include Paraburdoo.

50.0mm observed at Bryah in 60 minutes to 10:30pm Tuesday.

42.8mm observed at Three Rivers in 60 minutes to 12:00am Wednesday.

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.