A severe thunderstorm is poised to unleash damaging winds across parts of Western Australia's northern Kimberley region this afternoon, prompting urgent warnings from authorities.
Bureau Issues Urgent Alert
The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) issued a severe weather alert at approximately 3:30pm on Monday, 19 January 2026. The warning highlights a significant risk of damaging wind gusts associated with a line of thunderstorms moving through the area.
Meteorologists attribute the dangerous conditions to a combination of a very moist airmass and a strong easterly flow across the Kimberley, which is driving intense squall activity.
Areas in the Firing Line
The BoM stated that severe thunderstorms are likely to produce damaging winds in the warning area over the next several hours. Fitzroy Crossing has been specifically identified as a location that may be affected by the severe weather.
Residents within the warning zone, outlined in dark yellow on the Bureau's map, are being urged to take the threat seriously and prepare for blustery conditions.
Critical Safety Advice for Residents
The Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) has issued clear advice for people in the storm's path. The community is urged to follow these safety steps immediately:
- If you are outside, find safe shelter away from trees, power lines, storm water drains and streams.
- Once indoors, close your curtains and blinds, and stay away from windows.
- Unplug electrical appliances and avoid using landline telephones if there is lightning.
For those dealing with potential flooding, you can create makeshift sandbags by using pillow cases filled with sand. Place them around doorways to help protect your home from water ingress.
Important travel and road safety advice has also been emphasised:
- If you are boating, swimming or surfing, leave the water immediately.
- Do not drive into water of unknown depth and current.
- Slow down, turn your headlights on, and be alert for hazards like fallen power lines and debris.
- If heavy rain reduces visibility, pull over and park with your hazard lights on until it clears.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely as the severe thunderstorm cell moves through the region.
