Source: Bureau of Meteorology

For people in parts of Pilbara, Gascoyne, Central West and Central Wheat Belt districts.

Issued at 3:08 pm Wednesday, 18 December 2024.

Damaging wind gusts likely from high-based thunderstorms this afternoon.

Weather Situation: High-based thunderstorms have developed in hot and unstable conditions about the Central West, Gascoyne and western Pilbara this afternoon, with evaporative downbursts likely to lead to localised damaging wind gusts.

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

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.