Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology Western Australia TOP PRIORITY FOR IMMEDIATE BROADCAST Severe Weather Warning for Damaging Winds for parts of South Coastal, South East Coastal and Great Southern districts. Issued at 4:05 pm Friday, 7 August 2026. Damaging winds possible across parts of southern WA Saturday afternoon and evening. Weather Situation Increased southwesterly flow is forecast to move along the south coast of Western Australia on Saturday afternoon and evening, associated with the passage of a trough. DAMAGING WINDS for the following areas: South Coastal, South East Coastal and Great Southern DAMAGING WINDS GUSTS around 90 km/h are possible near Albany and about the Stirling Ranges on Saturday afternoon, moving eastwards to Esperance during Saturday late afternoon and evening. The strongest wind gusts are expected to occur with showers and thunderstorms. Conditions are forecast to ease on Saturday night. Locations which may be affected include Albany, the Stirling Ranges, Esperance, Bremer Bay and Hopetoun. The Department of Fire and Emergency Services advises that people should: * If outside find safe shelter away from trees, power lines, storm water drains and streams. * Close your curtains and blinds, and stay inside away from windows. * Unplug electrical appliances and do not use land line telephones if there is lightning. * If boating, swimming or surfing leave the water. * Be alert and watch for hazards on the road such as fallen power lines and loose debris. * Keep away from flooded drains, rivers, streams and waterways. * Be careful of fallen trees, damaged buildings and debris. * Be careful of fallen power lines. They are dangerous and should always be treated as live. * Assess your home, car and property for damage. * If damage has occurred take photos and contact your insurance company to organise permanent repairs. * If your home or property has significant damage, like a badly damaged roof or flooding, call the SES on 132 500. The next Severe Weather Warning will be issued by 11:00 pm AWST Friday. Check https://www.bom.gov.au/weather-and-climate/warnings-and-alerts. Warnings are also available through TV and Radio broadcasts or call 1300 659 210. The Bureau and Department of Fire and Emergency Services would appreciate warnings being broadcast regularly.