Severe weather warning as Perth braces for ‘twice a year’ storm

A SEVERE weather warning has been issued for Perth as the city braces for a storm that could bring with it 20mm of rain today.

A developing strong cold front and low may produce severe weather conditions across southwest WA from late Wednesday morning through to early Thursday morning.

The worst weather is expected southwest of a line from Mandurah to Walpole.

The strong cold front and deep low may produce damaging winds to 100 km/h.

The threat of damaging winds will extend to the Perth Metropolitan area from around midday and throughout remaining parts of the warning area during Wednesday afternoon.

In isolated areas dangerous gusts in excess of 125 km/h are possible and could cause significant damage.

Thunderstorms and small hail are also possible with the passage of the front.

Locations which may be affected include Albany, Bunbury, Busselton, Mandurah, Manjimup, Margaret River, Mount Barker, Perth, Harvey, Lancelin, Walpole and Yanchep.

The Bureau of Metereology said the front is expected to be windier than a typical front and is likely to produce the kind of weather that is only seen around twice a year.