Source: Bureau of Meteorology

For people in Central Plateau and parts of Western, Upper Derwent Valley, North East, East Coast, North West Coast, Central North and Midlands Forecast Districts.

Issued at 1:10 pm Wednesday, 17 January 2024.

Heavy rainfall persists across northeast and central Tasmania.

Weather Situation: A warm and very humid airmass ahead of a cold front is generating severe thunderstorms with heavy rainfall embedded within a broader rainband over northeastern and central parts of Tasmania. The rainband is expected to weaken during the afternoon, with heavy rainfall easing as a result.

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 Launceston, Oatlands, Scottsdale, Bridport, Bothwell and Tarraleah.

Sheffield School Farm recorded 46.6 mm in 3 hours to 9:15 am.

Low Head recorded 38.8 mm in 3 hrs to 11:22 am.

The State Emergency Service advises that people should:
* Avoid driving, walking or riding through flood waters.
* Seek shelter, preferably indoors and never under trees.
* Avoid using the telephone during a thunderstorm.
* Beware of fallen trees and powerlines.
* For emergency assistance contact the SES on 132500.