Source: Bureau of Meteorology

For people in parts of Kimberley, Pilbara and Gascoyne districts.

Issued at 6:42 pm Sunday, 18 January 2026.

Isolated damaging wind gusts from thunderstorms over the Kimberley and Pilbara this evening.

Weather Situation: Hot and unstable conditions about the Pilbara this evening is leading to high-based thunderstorms with the risk of damaging wind gusts. Meanwhile, over the Kimberley, increasing winds associated with a tropical low are producing thunderstorm squalls.

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

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.