Severe thunderstorm warning issued for parts of NSW
Heavy rainfall linked to ex-tropical cyclone Debbie is expected to cause havoc in parts of NSW today.
A severe thunderstorm warning has already been issued for parts of the state.
The weather bureau said the 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 Newcastle, Gosford, Cessnock, Maitland, Toronto, Morisset, Singleton, Wyong, The Entrance, Woy Woy, Wollombi and Kulnura.
A severe weather warning for destructive winds, heavy rainfall, abnormally high tides and damaging surf is also current for people in the Northern Rivers and parts of the Mid North Coast, Hunter, Metropolitan, North West Slopes and Plains and Northern Tablelands Forecast Districts.
Locations which may be affected with heavy rainfall include Lismore, Grafton, Coffs Harbour, Tenterfield, Yamba, Glen Innes and Inverell.
Coastal parts of Sydney, The Entrance, Newcastle, Port Macquarie, Coffs Harbour and Yamba have been warned to brace for destructive winds.
“24 hour totals in excess of 200 mm are expected over the Northern Rivers district during Thursday, and it is likely that some locations will significantly exceed 350 mm,” BOM warned.
Rainfall is increasing in the northeast – 60mm in last hour at Lillian Rock. Stay up to date with latest warnings https://t.co/Ss766fadjj
— BOM New South Wales (@BOM_NSW) March 30, 2017
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.
* 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, ring the SES (NSW and ACT) on 132 500.
The next warning is due to be issued by 2:25 pm.
