Source: Bureau of Meteorology

For people in parts of South Coast, Southern Tablelands, Snowy Mountains, Australian Capital Territory and Illawarra Forecast Districts.

Issued at 5:16 pm Saturday, 3 January 2026.

Thunderstorms likely to produce locally heavy rainfall and large hail over parts of southeast NSW and southern ACT

Weather Situation: A moist and relatively unstable airmass is in place over the inland southeast of NSW, with showers and thunderstorms repeatedly developing and moving along a weak trough in the area leading to a localised heavy rainfall risk. Stronger storms may also produce some large hail.

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding and large hailstones in the warning area over the next several hours. Locations which may be affected include Braidwood, Nerriga, Araluen, Captains Flat and Bredbo.

The State Emergency Service advises that people should:
* Park your car under secure cover and away from trees, powerlines and drains.
* Secure or put away loose items around your house, yard and balcony.
* 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.
* Stay indoors away from windows, and keep children and pets indoors as well.
For emergency help in flood and storms, ring the SES on 132 500.
Stay updated on the Hazards Near Me NSW app or the ACT ESA website (https://esa.act.gov.au).