Source: Bureau of Meteorology

For people in parts of Lower West and Central Wheat Belt districts.

Issued at 6:08 am Wednesday, 7 August 2024.

Locally heavy rainfall likely in the next few hours.

Weather Situation: A cold front extending over the southwest of WA is currently moving across northern and eastern parts of the Perth area over the next few hours. Instability and relatively strong winds aloft ahead of the front are supporting the development of bands of showers and thunderstorms capable of heavy rainfall.

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding in the warning area over the next several hours. Locations which may be affected include Northam, Gingin, Lancelin, Toodyay, Yanchep and York.

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.