Source: Bureau of Meteorology

For people in parts of Mid North Coast, Hunter, Central Tablelands, North West Slopes and Plains, Northern Tablelands, Northern Rivers and Central West Slopes and Plains Forecast Districts.

Issued at 6:00 pm Wednesday, 4 December 2024.

INTENSE RAINFALL WITH SLOW MOVING THUNDERSTORMS NEAR ARMIDALE.

Weather Situation:A very moist and unstable airmass has led to thunderstorms developing over northern parts of the state. Severe thunderstorms are slow moving and are likely to persist throughout the afternoon.

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 Mid North Coast, Hunter, North West Slopes and Plains, Northern Tablelands and Northern Rivers districts. Locations which may be affected include Armidale, Glen Innes, Inverell, Tingha, Bundarra and Bendemeer.

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding over the next several hours in parts of the Hunter, Central Tablelands, North West Slopes and Plains and Central West Slopes and Plains districts. Locations which may be affected include Mudgee, Narrabri, Gulgong, Hill End, Wee Waa and Baradine.

48.6 MM WAS RECORDED AT GUYRA IN THE 30 MINUTES TO 5:50PM

66.0 MM WAS RECORDED AT OGUNBIL (NEAR AMAROO) IN THE 1 HOUR TO 5:19PM

44.0 mm was recorded at Meldrum in the 30 minutes to 2:44 pm

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.