Source: Bureau of Meteorology

For people in parts of Northern Tablelands and North West Slopes and Plains Forecast Districts.

Issued at 4:42 pm Saturday, 5 October 2024.

Isolated severe thunderstorms are developing over northeastern NSW.

Weather Situation: A warm and moderately unstable airmass is in place to the north of a weak trough extending from the northern tablelands to the northern Mid North Coast and Northern Rivers area. Thunderstorm activity is expected to remain quite isolated, however strong winds in the upper atmosphere will help to strengthen any storms that do manage to develop. Isolated severe thunderstorms capable of localised damaging winds and large hail are possible.

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce damaging winds and large hailstones in the warning area over the next several hours.

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.
* 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.

The next warning is due to be issued by 7:45 pm.