Intense storms have battered Western Australia, leaving thousands without power and causing widespread destruction. Wind gusts of up to 125 km/h hit Perth and coastal communities on Sunday afternoon, with the Bureau of Meteorology warning of a deep low pressure system bringing powerful winds and heavy rain.
Western Power reported approximately 130 power outages across Perth and its surrounds, affecting 14,600 customers statewide. Social media images showed damage including a shed tossed into a swimming pool in Mandurah. The Department of Fire and Emergency Services urged residents to 'act now and stay safe,' warning of rarely experienced winds that could bring down trees, branches and powerlines.
Wind gusts of 117 km/h were recorded at Cape Leeuwin and 104 km/h at Cape Naturaliste. The system also brought high tides and eight-metre waves, while flooding in Perth's CBD stranded cars and submerged walkways. Residents were advised to stay indoors away from windows and secure loose items like outdoor furniture and trampolines.
Football fans attending the West Coast Eagles v Essendon match at Optus Stadium were urged to plan ahead. An 11-year-old autistic boy who went missing overnight in Perth's western suburbs during the storm was found safe after an eight-hour search involving police and State Emergency Service volunteers.
The cold front is expected to move across South Australia on Monday, bringing rain and wind gusts up to 100 km/h, with severe weather warnings issued for coastal regions, the Mid North and the south-east.
