Source: Bureau of Meteorology

For people in Hunter and parts of Central Tablelands, Mid North Coast and Metropolitan Forecast Districts.

Issued at 11:35 pm Saturday, 7 December 2024.

Severe thunderstorms continue in the Hunter.

Weather Situation: A warm and humid airmass combined with a trough of low pressure is continuing to generate severe thunderstorms this evening.

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 Newcastle, Cessnock, Maitland, Glen Davis, Kandos and Bilpin.

Severe thunderstorms are no longer occurring in the Central West Slopes and Plains, Lower Western and Upper Western districts and the warning for these districts is CANCELLED.

41mm of rain was recorded at Quorrobolong in 30 minutes up to 11:30pm

115 km/h wind gust was recorded at Griffith at 3:16 pm.

102 km/h wind gust was recorded at High Range at 4:09 pm.

90 km/h wind gust was recorded at Yanco at 3:32 pm.

90 km/h wind gust was recorded at Temora at 4:45 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.