The South Australian State Emergency Service (SA SES) is advising people to prepare ahead of damaging winds developing today and continuing into Saturday across many parts of South Australia.

The Bureau of Meteorology has also forecast wet weather, with a rainfall total of up to 30mm about the Mount Lofty Ranges, Kangaroo Island and Lower South East, with potential local falls of up to 50mm possible about southern coasts through until the end of Saturday.

Locally destructive winds are also possible around southern coastal areas with thunderstorms.

The Mount Lofty Ranges may experience damaging winds ahead of the front from early this afternoon.

Robert Charlton, SA SES Chief of Staff, said now is the time to prepare ahead of the windy conditions.

“Securing items in your yard or putting them away can avoid them being blown around and causing property damage during intense wind gusts,” he said.

“With school holidays underway, it’s important to be mindful of the latest weather forecast and warnings, and to take extra precaution to keep yourself, friends and family safe,” he says.

“With the rain we’ve had recently, the ground is sodden, increasing the risk of trees falling when there are strong winds.

“Whether you’re travelling around our beautiful state or staying at home, make sure you park cars and other vehicles under cover and well away from trees.

“For those that are camping, set your camps up away from trees, large overhanging branches and creek beds, and peg down your tents securely.

“Keep an eye on your children as well and make sure they don’t play around or on trees or large branches, or near fast-flowing water.

“While the risk is not anticipated, dam owners are encouraged to keep an eye on their dams and if they see a risk for failure, they should contact us on 132 500.”

“The SA SES is at a heightened level of preparedness and we will be constantly monitoring conditions. Our volunteers are ready to respond when the community needs us.”

The SA SES advises the following:

• Secure or put away loose items around your property.
• Park cars and other vehicles under cover and well away from trees
• Never drive, ride or walk through floodwater.
• Drive to the conditions.

For assistance in flood and storm emergencies contact the SA SES on 132 500.