Perth Pounded by Storms as Floodwaters Trap Residents and Cancel Events
It was a chaotic start to the weekend in Perth as wild weather swept through the region, bringing torrential rain, damaging winds, and flash flooding that caused widespread disruption across the city and beyond. People across Perth and Western Australia's South West found themselves dealing with the aftermath of an intense cold front that moved through early Saturday morning.
Several residents were trapped in their vehicles when floodwaters rose rapidly in low-lying areas. In Claremont, two people had to be rescued by the Department of Fire and Emergency Services after attempting to drive through a flooded underpass on Shenton Road. While one person was pulled from their car fairly quickly, the second rescue took more time. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
Further south in Mandurah, homes along Beam Road were inundated as floodwaters surged through local streets. One resident shared how kids were spotted paddling around in a kayak outside, taking full advantage of the unexpected backyard river. He noted that Moat Street, in particular, has long struggled with flash flooding due to poor drainage.
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In Fremantle, things nearly took a tragic turn when a massive 30-foot concrete light pole was knocked over by strong coastal winds, narrowly missing a parked car. Colin Regan, who had been sitting inside his vehicle at the time, said the pole fell just metres away — a chilling reminder of how unpredictable storm damage can be.
It wasn’t just homes and roads affected. Sports venues across the city were hit hard. Golfers at the Royal Perth Golf Club had to evacuate the course as fairways turned into small lakes. The Wanneroo City Soccer Club and Forrestfield Bowling Club both cancelled their Saturday matches, the latter joking about swapping bowls for water polo.
And the worst may not be over. According to the Bureau of Meteorology, a second, more powerful front is expected to move through on Sunday, with damaging winds, thunderstorms, and dangerous surf conditions predicted. Gusts of over 50km/h have already been recorded, and rain gauges in areas like Serpentine have topped 23mm in a few hours.
In regional areas like Gracetown, heavy rainfall—over 100mm in some parts—left the main access road completely underwater. Residents were effectively stranded as Cowaramup Bay Road turned into a fast-moving stream. Local authorities reopened the route by Monday, but warned of lingering debris and reduced speeds.
Emergency services have been stretched thin, responding to dozens of calls across Perth, Mandurah, and the South West. With more rain and wild weather looming, authorities are urging residents to prepare, stay indoors if possible, and avoid driving through flooded roads.
Stay safe, and if you're in a flood-prone area, now’s the time to be extra cautious.
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