Severe weather hits South West

A severe weather warning has been issued for the lower west coast this afternoon with damaging winds set to wreak havoc.

South West residents should bunker down late this afternoon or early evening when a deep low is expected to approach the coast.

According to the Bureau of Meteorology the low is expected to bring winds averaging 60km/h to 70km/h with the potential for gusts to reach up to 100km/h.

At 6.30 this morning gusts reached more than 40km/h and Bunbury clocked 4mm of rain at 8am.

Department of Fire and Emergency Services issued a warning this morning advising people to stay away from trees, power lines, storm water drains and streams.

Drivers are urged to slow down and be alert for hazards on the roads such as fallen power lines or loose debris.

For more information go to www.emergency.wa.gov.au