Perth & WA Weather: Wild weekend weather as cold front causes deluge of rain over WA

The weekend has kicked off with a soggy start as a powerful cold front continues its rainy journey across the State on Saturday.

A deep low pressure system moving across the State’s coast has resulted in a deluge of rain and heavy winds across the metropolitan area and the South West.

Bureau meteorologist Sarah Scully warned Sandgropers that the weekend’s wild conditions could lead to thunderstorms hitting the State.

“This deep low pressure system and associated cold front will bring wet and windy weather — and even a risk of a gusty thunderstorm,” she said.

The impacts of the cold front are already being felt across WA, as many locals awoke to strong downpours on Saturday morning.

Across the Perth metropolitan area, Bickley in the Perth Hills was hit with the most overnight rainfall — with the suburb’s weather station recording 23.2mm of precipitation overnight.

Dwellingup, located south-east of Perth, faced the worst deluge in the State with the Bureau recording a staggering 40mm of rain over the Peel town.

Visitors in the South West also face a dampener on weekend fun after hot spot Manjimup received 26.6mm of overnight rain.

Strong winds are also likely, with the Bureau of Meteorology issuing a marine wind warning for those between the Geraldton and Esperance regions.

Winds in the warning zone are anticipated to reach speeds up to 60kmh, with gusts potentially hitting 120kmh.

Residents along the Albany coastline may see windier conditions — with a gale force wind warning predicting wind speeds nearing 87kmh.

Mains Roads has issued a strong warning to motorists braving the road during the wild weather, urging drivers to be patient and allow extra travel time.

“Be aware of minor flooding across metro roads and drive to the conditions,” the warning said.

The cold front is expected to pass by Sunday, however rain will continue to pour over the WA capital until at least Thursday.

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services advises that people in the affected area 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 boating, swimming or surfing leave the water.
• Be alert and watch for hazards on the road such as fallen power lines and loose debris.
• Keep away from flooded drains, rivers, streams and waterways.