South West WA warned to prepare homes for thunderstorms, 100km/h winds as wild weather predicted across state

People living in South West WA from Perth to the Mid West are being urged to prepare their properties and have an emergency plan in place as severe storms and winds up to 100km/h in some areas are predicted from today.

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services said people should store or weigh down loose objects such as outdoor furniture as the average wind speed is predicted to be between 60-70km/h.

Areas affected include the Perth metropolitan area, Midwest-Gascoyne, Great Southern, South West, and the Lower South West.

People are also asked to prepare emergency kits with a battery operated radio, torch, spare batteries and first aid kits, keep pets and animals in safe areas, move vehicles undercover, moor boats, and avoid using landline phones if there is lightning.

Campers should seek shelter away from trees, powerlines, storm water drains and streams and those away from home should ask family or friends to prepare their property.

Another, stronger cold front will affect South West WA on Tuesday afternoon and evening and may also bring damaging winds.