Source: Bureau of Meteorology

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

Issued at 6:14 pm Saturday, 21 February 2026.

Localised severe thunderstorms this afternoon.

Weather Situation: Slow moving thunderstorms along the eastern slopes of the Great Dividing Range this afternoon in a moist unstable atmosphere may become locally severe at times.

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 Gosford, Singleton, Wyong, Cessnock, Barrington Tops and The Entrance.

Severe thunderstorms are no longer occurring in the Central Tablelands district and the warning for this district is CANCELLED.

52 mm was recorded at Comboyne (Thorne River) in the 60 min to 5:15 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.
* Stay indoors away from windows, and keep children and pets indoors as well.
For emergency help in flood and storms, ring the SES on 132 500.
Stay updated on the Hazards Near Me NSW app or the ACT ESA website (https://esa.act.gov.au).