WA weather: Severe thunderstorms to pelt parts of Kimberley with damaging winds

Parts of the Kimberley are set to be pelted by damaging winds, with a line of severe thunderstorms expected to sweep through the region.

The Bureau of Meteorology issued an alert about 3.30pm on Monday, warning people in the area to brace for hot and blustery conditions.

“A line of severe thunderstorms is moving to the northwest in hot and humid conditions in southern parts of the Kimberley district,” the alert stated.

“Some of the storms are producing severe 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 Derby.”

The Department of Fire and Emergency services urges people to follow the advice below:

• 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.

The latest weather warning updates can be found here.