Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued for Kimberley District as Heavy Rainfall Threatens Flash Flooding

Alert Details

The Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for heavy rainfall. This alert is classified as a top priority for immediate broadcast and is currently in effect for parts of the Kimberley district in Western Australia. The alert is identified by code IDW21033.

Affected Areas

The warning specifically covers eastern parts of the Kimberley region. Specific locations that may be affected by these severe conditions include Halls Creek.

Expected Conditions

A weak trough situated within a moist and unstable airmass is generating slow-moving thunderstorms. These storms are likely to produce heavy rainfall, which may lead to flash flooding within the warning area over the next several hours.

What You Should Do

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) advises residents to take the following precautions:

• Seek Shelter: If outside, find safe shelter away from trees, power lines, storm water drains, and streams.
• Stay Indoors: Close curtains and blinds, and stay away from windows. Unplug electrical appliances and avoid using landline telephones if there is lightning.
• Flood Protection: If flooding occurs, create sandbags using pillowcases filled with sand to protect doorways.
• Water Safety: If boating, swimming, or surfing, leave the water immediately.
• Driving Hazards: Do not drive into water of unknown depth and current. Slow down and turn your headlights on. If you cannot see due to heavy rain, pull over and park with hazard lights on until the rain clears.
• Road Hazards: Be alert for fallen power lines and loose debris.

Timeline

The warning was issued at 10:38 pm Thursday, 19 March 2026. The threat of heavy rainfall and flash flooding is expected to persist over the next several hours. The next update from the Bureau of Meteorology is scheduled to be issued by 1:40 am.