SEVERE thunderstorms are likely to produce heavy rainfall, hailstones and damaging winds over the next several hours in parts of the Hunter.
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The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a severe weather warning for the Hunter, Central Tablelands and parts of the Mid North Coast, Southern Tablelands, North West Slopes and Plains, Central West Slopes and Plains, South West Slopes and Northern Tablelands districts.
“Locations which may be affected include Scone, Armidale, Glen Innes, Orange, Mudgee, Bathurst, Dubbo, Parkes, Wellington, Narromine, Cowra and Peak Hill,” the BoM said.
There are concerns that heavy rainfall might also create flash flooding in parts of the North West Slopes and Plains and Central West Slopes and Plains districts. Locations which may be affected include Walgett, Coonamble, Baradine and Gilgandra.
In Lake Macquarie, the forecast is for up to 8mm of rainfall this afternoon (Wednesday).
Between 3mm and 10mm is forecast for Lake Macquarie on Thursday – close to the 11mm received in the area last Thursday.
“If severe thunderstorms develop in Sydney, Newcastle, Wollongong or the surrounding areas, a more detailed severe thunderstorm warning will be issued to people in this area,” the BoM said this afternoon.
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 on 131 388, or Endeavour Energy on 131 003 or Essential Energy on 132 080, as shown on your power bill.
- 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.
- Unplug computers and appliances.
- Avoid using the phone during the storm.
- Stay indoors away from windows, and keep children and pets indoors as well.
For emergency help in floods and storms, phone the SES on 132 500.
The next warning is due to be issued by 5:35 pm.