Source: Bureau of Meteorology
Issued at 2:11 pm Friday, 29 December 2023.
Severe thunderstorms developing through parts of the Hunter
district.
Weather Situation: Moisture and instability will build through the
afternoon to the east of a deepening inland trough, resulting in
favourable conditions for severe thunderstorm development.
Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce damaging winds, large
hailstones and 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, Wallsend,
Singleton and Dungog.
The State Emergency Service advises that people should:
* Move your car under cover or away from trees.
* Secure or put away loose items around your house, yard and
balcony.
* Keep at least 8 metres away from fallen power lines or objects
that may be energised, such as fences.
* Report fallen power lines to either Ausgrid (131 388), Endeavour
Energy (131 003), Essential Energy (132 080) or Evoenergy (131 093)
as shown on your power bill.
* Trees that have been damaged by fire are likely to be more
unstable and more likely to fall.
* 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.
29/Dec/2023 03:58 AM