WA weather: Severe thunderstorm and damaging winds to pummel parts of Kimberley

A severe thunderstorm is set to pound parts of WA’s north, with damaging winds forecast in the coming hours.

The Bureau of Meteorology issued an alert about 3:30pm, urging people in parts of the west Kimberley to brace for blustery conditions.

“A very moist airmass and strong easterly flow across the Kimberley is driving squall activity this afternoon, with the risk of damaging wind gusts ahead of and along the line of thunderstorms,” the warning stated.

“Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce damaging winds in the warning area over the next several hours.

“Locations which may be affected include Derby and Kuri Bay.”

People in the area of the warning zone are urged to follow The Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ advice below:

• 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.