Source: Bureau of Meteorology

For people in parts of South West and Lower West districts.

Issued at 9:25 am Wednesday, 13 September 2023.
Locally heavy rainfall over the South west and Lower west coasts.

Weather Situation: A strong cold front is approaching the southwest of WA this morning. slow-moving bands of thunderstorm activity developing in the moist air ahead of this front are leading to the potential for locally heavy rainfall.

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 Bunbury and Harvey.

37.0 mm was recorded at Vasse in the 1 hour to 6:10 am.
36.2 mm was recorded at Bussleton Airport in the 3 hours 9:20 am.

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.