THE most destructive storm of the year is bearing
down on south western WA, as authorities warn of powerful winds gusting at up
to 125kmh.
The Bureau of Meteorology has warned residents not
to downplay the threat because two previous strong cold fronts had largely
fizzled out this weekend.
A severe weather warning has been issued for
widespread damaging winds from Jurien Bay to Israelite Bay with the potential
for destructive gusts overnight.
“Initially those damaging winds are expected to hit
the South West from about 5pm, and then extend up to Perth up to 6pm, but the
really concerning period is overnight between about 11pm and 5am Monday morning
when the core of the strong winds moves across the Perth area and South West,”
BOM state manager Matt Collopy said.
He said while the storm would be “primarily a wind
event” a flood-watch was in effect amid heavy falls throughout this week.
There was the potential for treacherous surf
conditions, with the prospect of beach erosion stretching from Geraldton to
Albany.
“It’s going to be a pretty wet and windy night,” Mr
Callopy said.
“This sort of event (typically) occurs once or twice
during a winter storm season. This is the strongest one for the season so far.”
Department of Fire and Emergency Services metro
district officer Chris Kin-Maung said State emergency services and volunteers
were on “heightened alert”.
“We are asking the community to prepare their
families and their homes,” he said.
“Even though householders may have been unscathed
over the last couple of days, now is the time to prepare.
“If it is safe to do so, take action now. Prepare
around the home, tidy up loose objects in the garden, secure trampolines,
garden furniture and play equipment.
“If you are caught out in the storm, seek shelter.
If you are on the roads, drive safely, slow down and be out on the lookout for
debris such as fallen powerlines and be aware of water across roads.
“If you require SES assistance call 132 500 and stay
up to date on the Emergency WA website www.emergency.wa.gov.au”
While cold fronts on Friday night and Saturday night
had been less destructive than predicted, emergency services had responded to
40 to 50 calls for help this weekend.
The majority had been caused by damaged rooves and
blocked gutters, Mr Kin-Maung said.Swell is expected to reach eight metres in
offshore waters.
Notable rainfall recorded i n gauges so far during
the past week include 153mm at Jarrahwood, 134mm at Dwellingup Forestry and
117mm at Busselton Airport.
