Source: Bureau of Meteorology

For people in Lower West and parts of Central West, Great Southern and Central Wheat Belt districts.

Issued at 7:10 pm Wednesday, 2 August 2023.
Severe thunderstorms approaching the southwest of the state.

Weather Situation: A cold front is crossing the southwestern districts tonight, resulting in the development of severe thunderstorms.

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce destructive winds in the warning area over the next several hours. Locations which may be affected include Northam, Perth, Gingin, Lancelin, Toodyay and Yanchep.

A 103 km/h gust was observed at Lancelin at approximately 6:20 pm.
A 126 km/h gust was observed at Lancelin east at approximately 6:30 pm.

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.