Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Damaging Winds Issued for Pilbara District, WA

Alert Details

The Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for damaging winds. This top-priority alert is currently in effect for residents in parts of the Pilbara forecast district in Western Australia. The warning was issued following the detection of severe weather conditions triggered by a moist and unstable environment.

Affected Areas

The warning primarily affects the central parts of the Pilbara district. Specific locations identified in the warning path include Marble Bar and surrounding areas. A significant wind gust of 98 km/h was recorded at Ironbridge Airport at 4:45 pm.

Expected Conditions

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce damaging wind gusts across the warning area. These conditions are expected to persist for the next several hours as the unstable environment continues to trigger storm activity. Residents should remain alert for sudden increases in wind speed and potential debris.

What You Should Do

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) advises residents to take immediate safety precautions:

• Seek Shelter: If outside, find safe shelter away from trees, power lines, storm water drains, and streams.
• Stay Indoors: Close curtains and blinds, and stay away from windows.
• Electrical Safety: Unplug electrical appliances and avoid using landline telephones if lightning is present.
• Water Safety: If boating, swimming, or surfing, leave the water immediately. Do not drive into water of unknown depth and current.
• Road Safety: Slow down and turn on headlights. Watch for hazards such as fallen power lines and loose debris. If heavy rain prevents visibility, pull over and park with hazard lights on until the rain clears.
• Flood Protection: If flooding occurs, create sandbags using pillowcases filled with sand to protect doorways.

Timeline

The warning was issued at 4:56 pm AWST on Saturday, 21 February 2026. Severe conditions are expected to continue through the evening. The Bureau of Meteorology is scheduled to issue the next update by 8:00 pm, or earlier if the situation changes.