Source: Bureau of Meteorology
For people in Southern Tablelands, South West Slopes, Australian
Capital Territory and parts of Mid North Coast, Hunter, Central
Tablelands, North West Slopes and Plains, Central West Slopes and
Plains, Riverina, Lower Western, Upper Western, Snowy Mountains and
Northern Tablelands Forecast Districts.
Issued at 2:38 pm Tuesday, 19 December 2023.
Severe thunderstorms continue to develop.
Weather Situation:
A trough extending from northwest New South Wales through central
parts of the state is generating severe thunderstorms in a hot and
humid environment ahead of a strengthening upper trough.
Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce damaging winds, large
hailstones and heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding in
the warning area over the next several hours. Locations which may
be affected include Taree, Newcastle, Gosford, Canberra, Goulburn,
Tamworth, Tibooburra and Cobar.
The State Emergency Service advises that people should:
* Move your car under cover or away from trees.
* Secure or put away loose items around your house, yard and
balcony.
* Keep at least 8 metres away from fallen power lines or objects
that may be energised, such as fences.
* Report fallen power lines to either Ausgrid (131 388), Endeavour
Energy (131 003), Essential Energy (132 080) or Evoenergy (131 093)
as shown on your power bill.
* Trees that have been damaged by fire are likely to be more
unstable and more likely to fall.
* 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.
19/Dec/2023 03:48 AM