WA's south prepares for severe storms

12 Aug 2012, 4:29 pm   -   Source: AAP
Residents in WA's south have been warned to take action with stormy weather expected to hit. (AAP)

Residents in WA's south have been warned to take action with stormy weather expected to hit. (AAP)

Residents in Western Australia's south, including Perth down to Albany, have been warned to take action with stormy weather expected to hit the area.

Residents in Western Australia's south, including Perth down to Albany, have been told to "take action" with stormy weather expected to batter the lower part of the state on Sunday afternoon and into the evening.

The Bureau of Meteorology says a strong cold front could bring winds up to 100 kilometres an hour and heavy rain that could cause flash flooding.

Higher than normal tides are also expected near the south coast and wind gusts could cause damage to properties.

The storm is expected to hit the Perth metropolitan area from 3pm to 8pm (WST).

The Fire and Emergency Services Authority (FESA) has warned anyone living near or between Bunbury, Busselton, Bridgetown, Margaret River, Albany, Mandurah, Perth and surrounding areas to stay safe.

"This is typical weather for this time of year but could damage homes and make travel dangerous," FESA says.

The State Emergency Service (SES) says curtains and blinds should be closed and people should remain inside, away from windows.

Anyone caught outside is advised to find safe shelter away from trees, powerlines, stormwater drains and streams, the SES says.

Residents have also been warned to unplug electrical appliances and avoid using landline telephones if there is lightning.

Anyone boating, swimming or surfing should also leave the water, the SES says.

Drivers have been warned to slow down, turn lights on and keep a safe distance from other drivers.

If it is raining heavily and you cannot see, pull over and park with your hazard lights on until the rain clears, the SES says.

People should also be careful of driving on gravel roads because surfaces will be slippery and muddy and vehicles could become bogged, authorities say.

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