Source: Bureau of Meteorology

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

Issued at 5:14 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, large hailstones and damaging winds over the next several hours in parts of the Hunter, Metropolitan and Central Tablelands districts. Locations which may be affected include Singleton, Cessnock, Wollombi and Kulnura.

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding over the next several hours in parts of the Mid North Coast and Hunter districts. Locations which may be affected include Taree, Comboyne, Gloucester, Wauchope, Barrington Tops and Wingham.

The State Emergency Service advises that people should:
* Park your car under secure cover and away from trees, powerlines and drains.
* 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.
* 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