Source: Bureau of Meteorology

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

Issued at 10:01 am Wednesday, 18 May 2022.

Heavy rainfall to continue over parts of the Pilbara and the interior this morning and afternoon.

Weather Situation: An upper trough is deepening a slow-moving surface trough over northwestern WA, resulting in the formation of a cloud band with embedded thunderstorms. The risk of heavy rainfall continues, with the trough and associated cloud band forecast to weaken later today.

HEAVY RAINFALL which may lead to FLASH FLOODING is forecast to continue over the Pilbara, far northeastern Gascoyne and adjacent western Interiors this morning. Six-hourly rainfall totals between 50 and 80 mm are likely for the Pilbara and further inland, with isolated totals up to 100 mm possible about the coastal fringe.

While heavy falls are not uncommon through this area, they are unusual at this time of year and may cause damage to property and make road conditions hazardous.

A Flood Watch is current for parts of the Pilbara and Central Desert Areas. For more details, please visit www.bom.gov.au/wa/warnings.

Locations which may be affected include Karratha, Newman, Port Hedland, Barrow Island, Marble Bar, Nullagine, Pannawonica, Parnngurr, Roebourne, Telfer, Whim Creek and Wickham.

Severe weather is no longer occurring in the Gascoyne district and the warning for this district is CANCELLED.

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 boating, swimming or surfing leave the water.
* Be alert and watch for hazards on the road such as fallen power lines and loose debris.
* Keep away from flooded drains, rivers, streams and waterways.
* Be careful of fallen trees, damaged buildings and debris.
* Be careful of fallen power lines. They are dangerous and should always be treated as live.
* Assess your home, car and property for damage.
* If damage has occurred take photos and contact your insurance company to organise permanent repairs.
* If your home or property has significant damage, like a badly damaged roof or flooding, call the SES on 132 500.