Source: Bureau of Meteorology

For people in parts of North West Slopes and Plains, Northern Tablelands and Mid North Coast Forecast Districts.

Issued at 11:51 am Monday, 18 March 2024.

Heavy rainfall with thunderstorm activity continuing around Tamworth area.

Weather Situation: An upper trough moving across eastern NSW, combined with a moist airmass and east to west orientated low level trough is leading to slow moving thunderstorm clusters capable of producing heavy rainfall.

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding in the warning area over the next several hours. Locations which may be affected include Tamworth, Walcha and Bendemeer.

Tamworth Airport recorded 65 mm in the 3 hours to 11 am.

Woolbrook recorded 45 mm in 60 minutes to 11 am.

The State Emergency Service advises that people should:
* Keep clear of creeks and storm drains.
* Don't walk, ride your bike or drive through flood water.
* If you are trapped by flash flooding, seek refuge in the highest available place and ring 000 if you need rescue.
* Be aware that run-off from rainfall in fire affected areas may behave differently and be more rapid. It may also contain debris such as ash, soil, trees and rocks.
* After bushfires, heavy rain and the loss of foliage can make the ground soft and heavy, leading to a greater chance of landslides.
* Unplug computers and appliances.
* Avoid using the phone during the storm.
* Stay indoors away from windows, and keep children and pets indoors as well.
* Stay vigilant and monitor conditions. Note that the landscape may have changed following bushfires.
* For emergency help in floods and storms, ring the SES (NSW and ACT) on 132 500.