Source: Bureau of Meteorology

For people in parts of Northern Rivers, Mid North Coast and Hunter Forecast Districts.

Issued at 3:11 am Thursday, 4 April 2024.
Slow moving thunderstorms with heavy rainfall in the northeast and north of Newcastle.

Weather Situation: Isolated thunderstorms and persistent heavy showers have developed along a trough in the far northeast of the state and with the onshore flow across central coast. Thunderstorms are slow moving and will likely continue early this morning.

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 Ballina, Coraki, Evans Head, Seal Rocks, Bulahdelah and Nelson Bay.

Nashua recorded 70mm in 1 hour to 22:45pm on Wednesday.
Wallis Lakes recorded 64.5mm in 2 hours to 3:00am.

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.