Source: Bureau of Meteorology

For people in Western, North West Coast, Central North and parts of Upper Derwent Valley, South East, North East and Central Plateau Forecast Districts.

Issued at 7:50 am Wednesday, 17 January 2024.

Severe thunderstorms ahead of a cold front are affecting western and northern parts of Tasmania.

Weather Situation: A warm and very humid airmass ahead of a cold front is generating severe thunderstorms with heavy rainfall embedded within a broader rainband over western and northern parts of Tasmania.

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 Devonport, Burnie, Smithton, Launceston, Strahan and Queenstown.

Mount Read recorded 17.8 mm in 30 minutes to 7:30 am.

The State Emergency Service advises that people should:
* Avoid driving, walking or riding through flood waters.
* Seek shelter, preferably indoors and never under trees.
* Avoid using the telephone during a thunderstorm.
* Beware of fallen trees and powerlines.
* For emergency assistance contact the SES on 132500.