The Bureau of Meteorology has issued an urgent warning for residents in a large swathe of Western Australia's interior, with severe thunderstorms and damaging winds forecast to strike within hours.
Immediate Warning for Multiple Regions
At approximately 3:40pm on Tuesday, 6 January 2026, the Bureau alerted communities across the Gascoyne, Goldfields, and Southern Interior districts. The warning specifically names the towns of Kalgoorlie, Meekatharra, Laverton, Leinster, Leonora, and Menzies as being in the firing line.
Meteorologists attribute the dangerous conditions to a very hot, unstable atmosphere interacting with a surface trough, which is generating vigorous thunderstorm activity this afternoon.
Critical Safety Advice from Authorities
The Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) is urging everyone in the warning area to take immediate steps to ensure their safety. Key advice includes seeking solid shelter away from trees, power lines, and waterways if caught outside.
Residents are advised to secure their homes by closing curtains and blinds, staying away from windows, and unplugging electrical appliances. The DFES also provides a practical tip for those concerned about flooding: create makeshift sandbags using pillowcases filled with sand to protect doorways.
Travel and Outdoor Dangers
The severe weather poses significant risks for travel and outdoor activities. Authorities have issued clear directives:
- Leave the water immediately if boating, swimming, or surfing.
- Never drive into floodwater of unknown depth or current.
- Reduce speed, turn on headlights, and be alert for hazards like fallen power lines and debris.
- If heavy rain reduces visibility, pull over safely, park with hazard lights on, and wait for conditions to clear.
The Bureau of Meteorology states that the severe thunderstorms are likely to produce damaging winds over the next several hours. Residents are encouraged to stay informed by monitoring the latest official weather warnings for updates.
