Tornado Devastates Bunbury, Hospitalizing Two Individuals and Causing Extensive Damage

Two people have been rushed to hospital after a tornado smashed through Bunbury, in WA’s south west, on Friday afternoon, causing widespread destruction and leaving a trail of damage.

St John Ambulance reported that a woman in her 30s, who was at the Bunbury Police and Citizens Youth Club when the tornado struck, sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was taken to the hospital for medical attention.

Simultaneously, a man from the Bunbury Regional Prison was also hospitalized with less severe injuries, highlighting the extent of the chaos caused by the natural disaster.

Images from the scene depict significant structural damage, with a large section of the PCYC building collapsing and its roof torn off, creating a scene of devastation with twisted metal scattered around the area.

DFES South West Superintendent Andy Wright stated that the tornado’s impact appeared to be concentrated in the Withers suburb of Bunbury, where approximately 40 roofs were affected, varying from minor damage to being completely lifted off.

According to the Bureau of Meteorology, the tornado was confirmed in South Bunbury around 4pm on Friday, leading to an updated severe weather warning for regions including Bridgetown, Collie, Manjimup, Harvey, and Walpole due to the potential for damaging winds and heavy rainfall.

As the community grapples with the aftermath of the tornado, residents are urged to be cautious of hazards such as fallen powerlines, trees, and other debris in the affected areas, emphasizing the need for safety measures in the wake of the disaster.