Source: Bureau of Meteorology

For people in parts of Pilbara, Gascoyne, South Interior and North Interior districts.

Issued at 2:34 pm Wednesday, 20 November 2024.

Severe thunderstorms have developed in northern central WA this afternoon.

Weather Situation: A surface trough through the Gascoyne and Pilbara in a moist and unstable airmass is producing severe thunderstorms in central WA this afternoon. Thunderstorm activity will move towards the east into the evening.

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce damaging winds in the warning area over the next several hours. Locations which may be affected include Newman and Jigalong.

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.