Source: Bureau of Meteorology

Issued at 11:59 am Monday, 29 January 2024.

LOCALLY INTENSE RAINFALL POSSIBLE ABOUT LIGHTNING RIDGE, GOODOOGA.

Weather situation: A low pressure trough in combination with a very humid airmass is triggering slow-moving thunderstorms today, with a potential for heavy rainfall.

VERY DANGEROUS THUNDERSTORMS are likely to produce heavy, locally intense rainfall that may lead to dangerous and life-threatening flash flooding over the next several hours in parts of the Upper Western district. Locations which may be affected include Lightning Ridge and Goodooga.

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding over the next several hours in parts of the North West Slopes and Plains, Upper Western and Central West Slopes and Plains districts. Locations which may be affected include Moree, Narrabri, Walgett, Lightning Ridge, Collarenebri and Goodooga.

62.4 mm in 1 hour to 11:53 am at Lightning Ridge Airport.

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.
* 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.