Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued for South Interior District

The Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued a top-priority severe thunderstorm warning for residents in parts of the South Interior district of Western Australia. The warning, issued Saturday afternoon, highlights an immediate threat of heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding.

Alert Details

• Alert Type: Severe Thunderstorm Warning (Heavy Rainfall)
• Issuing Agency: Bureau of Meteorology (BOM)
• Status: New / Major

Affected Areas

The warning is currently in effect for parts of the South Interior district. The Bureau specifically identifies Warburton as a location that may be affected by the approaching storms.

Expected Conditions

A very moist airmass is currently situated over the South Interior, with a low-pressure system located near Carnegie triggering thunderstorms along its eastern flank. These severe thunderstorms are likely to produce heavy rainfall over the next several hours, which may result in dangerous flash flooding conditions.

What You Should Do

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) advises residents in the warning area to take the following actions:

• Find Shelter: If outside, seek safe shelter away from trees, power lines, storm water drains, and streams. Stay inside and away from windows with curtains and blinds closed.
• Electrical Safety: Unplug electrical appliances and avoid using landline telephones if lightning is present.
• Flood Protection: If flooding occurs, create sandbags using pillowcases filled with sand to protect doorways.
• Water Activities: If boating, swimming, or surfing, leave the water immediately.
• Driving Safety: Do not drive into water of unknown depth or current. Slow down, turn on headlights, and be alert for road hazards such as debris or fallen power lines. If heavy rain makes it impossible to see, pull over and park with hazard lights on until the rain clears.

Timeline

The warning was issued at 1:48 pm Saturday, February 21, 2026. The next update is scheduled to be issued by 4:50 pm. Residents are encouraged to monitor local media and the BOM website for further developments.