BATTEN down the hatches: the Department of Fire and Emergency Services is warning residents to get ready now for severe weather tonight in parts of the Perth metropolitan area, particularly the Hills.
Locations which may be affected include Mandurah, Perth, Gingin, Harvey, Lancelin and Yanchep.
At 10.30am the Bureau of Meteorology advised a strong high pressure system had developed to the south of the state which would generate strong and gusty easterly winds on and west of the Darling escarpment from Saturday evening into Sunday morning.
Get in front of tomorrow's news for FREE
Journalism for the curious Australian across politics, business, culture and opinion.
READ NOWThis includes much of the Perth metropolitan area and extending south to Australind and north to Lancelin.
Damaging winds with gusts of up to 100 km/h are possible and could cause damage to home and properties.
The strongest wind gusts are expected between 8pm Saturday evening until 8am Sunday morning.
Gusty easterly winds are common this time of year however tonight’s winds are likely to be unusually strong and may cause damage to property and make road conditions hazardous.
Easterly winds of this strength generally occur around once every two to three years.
WHAT TO DO:
DFES has these tips to help you and your family get ready now:
Store or weigh down loose objects around your home like outdoor furniture that could be picked up and thrown by strong winds, causing damage or injury
Ensure your emergency kit is complete including a battery operated radio, torch, spare batteries and first aid kit
Ensure pets and animals are in a safe area
Move vehicles under cover
Boat owners should securely moor their boats
Campers should find safe shelter away from trees, powerlines, storm water drains and streams
Unplug electrical appliances and avoid using landline telephone if there is lightning.
If you are away from home contact family or friends to prepare your property