Severe thunderstorm warning for Kalgoorlie, Merredin, Northam, Corrigin, Hyden, Southern Cross and Harvey

A severe thunderstorm warning has been issued for parts of WA, with residents warned to expect large hailstones.

The Bureau of Meteorology issued the weather warning at 3.13pm on Wednesday for people in Kalgoorlie, Merredin, Northam, Corrigin, Hyden and Southern Cross.

“A trough extending from the Lower West through to the Interior is triggering severe thunderstorms in a moist and unstable environment,” the warning stated.

“The focus of thunderstorm activity will shift progressively south-eastwards during the day, following the movement of the low and trough.”

A separate warning has also been issued for severe thunderstorms set to hit Harvey.

Emergency WA advises people in the warning zones “to act now and stay safe with severe weather forecast including heavy rainfall occurring now”.

Heavy rainfall could lead to flash flooding and isolation, so people should ensure they “have enough canned food and water to last five to seven days, as well as any medications or baby supplies that you may need”.

People are also advised to keep important documents safe and make sure their vehicle has a full tank.

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.