Perth weather: A coastal hazard warning has been issued with a major storm set to smash WA coast on Wednesday

A “coastal hazard” warning has been issued for tens of thousands of WA residents, with a major storm set to smash the WA coast on Wednesday.

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services on Tuesday issued a coastal hazard advice warning for the Perth metropolitan area and several other areas, including those in the South West and Mid-West Gascoyne region.

“You need to act now and stay safe with severe weather forecast including damaging winds and damaging surf expected from Wednesday,” the DFES alert reads.

“Locations which may be affected include Kalbarri, Geraldton, Jurien Bay, Lancelin, Yanchep, Perth, Mandurah, Bunbury, Margaret River, Augusta and Walpole.”

People are being urged to avoid coastal areas, including beaches, tidal rivers, creeks, cliff areas, and sand dunes.

Beach closures may be in place.

As of 11.05am on Tuesday, the Bureau of Meteorology advises that a strong cold front will move across southwest WA during Wednesday and into Thursday, causing strong to gale-force winds and large seas.

The cold front could also bring damaging surf conditions.

“These conditions are expected to persist during Thursday, easing in the evening,” DFES says.

Ferries to Rottnest Island on Wednesday will be cancelled due to the dangerous sea conditions.

The Bureau of Meteorology predicts swells to hit around four metres at midday, with hail possible later in the afternoon and evening on Wednesday.

If your home or property has significant damage like flooding, call the SES on 132 500

Visit Emergency WA for more information.