If you’ve lived in WA for long, you’ll know that a storm in Perth, Australia isn’t just a bit of wind and rain. It can come in fast, hit hard, and cause real damage — especially to your home’s power and safety systems. One moment it’s blue skies and birdsong, the next you’re chasing your trampoline down the road or wondering why your Wi-Fi just went dead mid-movie. When it comes to Perth storms, we don’t always get a lot of warning — and that’s why preparation matters.
Remember the 2010 Perth Hailstorm?
If you were living here back then, you probably still remember it clearly. On 22 March 2010, a freak storm in Perth, Australia battered the city with golf-ball-sized hailstones, torrential rain, and lightning. The damage bill hit over $1 billion, with cars written off, ceilings collapsed, and homes flooded across the suburbs.
It was the most expensive natural disaster in WA history — and a reminder that even in our sunshine state, nature can pack a punch.
You don’t need a record-breaking storm for things to go wrong. All it takes is one power surge, one flying tree branch, or one unsecured trampoline — and suddenly you’ve got a very expensive (and potentially dangerous) situation on your hands.
Perth’s Climate = Preparedness is a Must
Perth is isolated, and our weather patterns are unique. We get blistering heat in summer, long dry spells, and then intense cold fronts sweeping through in winter — often bringing strong winds, lightning, and heavy rainfall.
So while the sunshine might lull you into a false sense of security, the reality is: if you own a home here, storm prep isn’t optional — it’s part of looking after your property (and your family).
And when it comes to storms and electricity? You really don’t want to take chances.
Electrical Safety Tips for When a Storm Hits Perth
1. Unplug Before Lightning Strikes
One of the most common questions we hear as sparkies is:
“Should I unplug things during a thunderstorm?”
The answer is yes — but only before the storm arrives.
Lightning doesn’t have to hit your house directly to cause damage. A strike to a nearby pole or transformer can send a power surge racing through the lines, straight into your home.
If you know a storm in Perth, Australia is on the way, we recommend:
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- Unplugging computers, TVs, gaming consoles and modems
- Unplugging benchtop appliances like toasters and kettles
- Turning off and unplugging chargers, especially for laptops and phones
- Using powerboards with surge protection as a basic safeguard
Leave your fridge and freezer plugged in, but try not to open them during a power outage to help food stay cold.
We’ve seen customers lose thousands of dollars’ worth of appliances from a single surge. If you’d rather not unplug everything every time, talk to us about installing a switchboard surge diverter – a solid long-term option that protects the whole house.
2. What Not to Do During a Storm
Once the storm is overhead, it’s time to play it safe and stay well away from anything that could conduct electricity.
Here’s what we advise you don’t do during a thunderstorm:
- Don’t use the shower, taps, dishwasher, or washing machine
- Don’t use corded phones
- Don’t stand near windows or sliding glass doors
- Don’t plug or unplug devices while lightning is active nearby
If you’re outside and can’t get inside during a storm in Perth, Australia, stay away from fences, trees, metal, and open spaces. Crouch low if needed, but never lie flat — and definitely don’t shelter under trees.
These might seem like small things — but they’re the difference between riding out a storm safely and taking unnecessary risks.
3. Secure the Backyard – and Fast
Every year, Perth sparkies and SES crews see the same culprits causing preventable damage:
Loose trampolines, shade sails, outdoor chairs, umbrellas and kids’ toys becoming dangerous missiles in the wind.
Even if you think, “It’ll be fine,” — trust us, it often isn’t.
It really does make a difference.
We’ve seen trampolines tangled in powerlines, fences smashed, and solar panels shattered by flying bins. A few minutes of prep can save you thousands — and help keep your family safe.
Do this before a storm:
- Tie down or weigh down trampolines
- Move garden furniture and outdoor items indoors
- Trim branches overhanging roofs or powerlines
Set a phone reminder each March or April to check your trees ahead of winter. A 10-minute job now can prevent a big clean-up later.
If branches are near Western Power lines, don’t touch them. Report them to the utility or hire a licensed contractor — it’s safer and required by law.
4. Skip the Candles – Use Safer Lighting
During a storm in Perth, Australia, blackouts are common. Candles might seem like the easy fix, but they’re a serious fire hazard — especially with kids, pets, or if left unattended.
Instead:
- Keep LED torches in bedrooms, hallways, and the kitchen
- Charge a few lanterns before the storm hits
- Bring in solar lights from the garden as makeshift lamps
- Store spare batteries in a safe, dry place
It’s a small effort — but one that keeps your home brighter and safer.
What to Include in Your Storm Emergency Kit
Every Perth home should have an emergency kit ready — especially through winter.
Your kit should include:
- Battery-powered torch and spare batteries
- Power bank or portable phone charger
- Wind-up or battery-powered radio
- First aid kit and basic medications
- Non-perishable food and water
- Warm clothes, rain jackets, blankets
- Pet food and supplies
- Copies of key documents (on USB or print)
- Emergency contact list
- Basic tools (duct tape, multitool, gloves)
Keep it all together in a waterproof tub or backpack in an easy-to-reach spot.
Who to Call During a Storm in Perth Australia
Save these contacts before you need them:
- 000 – Emergency (Police / Fire / Ambulance)
- 132 500 – SES WA (Storm or flood damage assistance)
- 13 13 51 – Western Power faults and emergencies
- 131 444 – Police (non-emergency)
- www.dfes.wa.gov.au – WA Department of Fire & Emergency Services
And if you see a downed powerline — stay clear. Always.
After the Storm: What to Check Before Switching Back On
Once a storm in Perth, Australia has passed, don’t rush to get everything back on.
Check:
- Are there signs of water near power points or the switchboard?
- Any burning smells from sockets or devices?
- Do your safety switches trip when resetting?
If anything looks off — don’t chance it. Call our team of licensed electricians to inspect your system before you restore full power.
Need help storm-proofing your home or checking things after the storm?
We’re P Herman and Co – a Perth-based family-run team of sparkies with over 35 years of experience. Whether it’s surge protection, switchboard checks, or urgent repairs, we’re here when you need us.
before the next storm in Perth, Australia rolls in.