WAtoday

Laying back in the shade on a reclining camp chair with a cold drink and their beloved horses nearby, Mark and Julie King almost seem comfortable.

But the massive gumtrees towering above them won’t stop swaying, and the constant noise of the wind is a terrifying reminder of why they left their Maindample property for the refuge of the Mansfield Showgrounds.

“We came in last night because today was supposed to be the worst day,” Julie King said.

“We hope we’re here for nothing but, with that wind … wow.