A severe weather warning for the Riverina has been issued by the Bureau of Meteorology at 2.30pm this afternoon.
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Damaging winds, large hailstones and heavy rainfall within the next couple of hours are forecasted for residents in the Riverina, Central West Slopes and Plains and parts of North West Slopes and Plains, South West Slopes, and Upper Western Forecast Districts.
The Bureau says towns which may be affected include those around Griffith, Wagga Wagga, Walgett, Dubbo, Parkes, and Lightning Ridge.
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.
A slow-moving trough lying through central parts of NSW is generating unstable conditions throughout the eastern half of the state.
The State Emergency Service advises 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 on 131 388, or Endeavour Energy on 131 003 or Essential Energy on 132 080, 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.
- Unplug computers and appliances.
- Avoid using the phone during the storm.
- Stay indoors away from windows, and keep children and pets indoors as well.
- For emergency help in floods and storms, ring the SES (NSW and ACT) on 132 500.
