Powerful thunderstorms set to strike WA with heavy rain and fierce winds in metro area
The weather in Western Australia (WA) is set to change dramatically as powerful thunderstorms are anticipated to hit the metropolitan area. After a pleasant Tuesday, heavy rain and fierce winds are emerging across the state. By Wednesday morning, showers began to affect the Perth Metro and South West regions.
Weather Conditions in Perth and Surrounding Areas
As of 8:10 AM on Wednesday, the Perth Metro weather station in Osborne Park recorded 4.2mm of rainfall. The Bureau of Meteorology predicts an additional 5mm of rain throughout the day, particularly impacting coastal regions from Geraldton to Albany.
Forecast Updates from Meteorologists
- Bureau meteorologist Bob Tarr indicated that cold fronts would move across the state following the recent warm weather.
- Further showers are likely in Perth and South West later in the afternoon, but with less intensity than earlier in the day.
- Regions such as Eucla and northern Kimberley may experience thunderstorms over the next two days.
Strong Winds Accompanying Rainfall
Alongside the rain, strong winds are expected to impact Perth residents. Westerly winds are forecasted to range from 25 to 35 km/hr on Wednesday afternoon. Gooseberry Hill and Swanbourne reported gusts up to 49 km/hr earlier in the day. Garden Island and Rottnest Island recorded wind speeds exceeding 50 km/hr during the early morning hours.
Extended Forecast for WA
The rainy and windy conditions are predicted to persist in the state over the next three days. On Friday, a significant cold front could bring thunderstorms, particularly to the South West region, with potential coastal wind warnings in effect.
While the forecast may appear gloomy, the end of the week promises a break from the rain. Residents can look forward to a sunny Sunday and Monday following this inclement weather.
Wider Impacts Across Australia
The dramatic weather in WA coincides with severe conditions experienced across Australia’s eastern coast. Earlier this week, south-east Queensland and Victoria faced intense thunderstorms that left over 85,000 homes without power. In Victoria, rainfall reached 35mm in a single day, with winds gusting near 100 km/hr.
