Forecast

Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology
TOP PRIORITY FOR IMMEDIATE BROADCAST

Severe Thunderstorm Warning
for Heavy Rainfall

for Riverina and parts of Central West Slopes and Plains, South West Slopes, Upper Western, Snowy Mountains and Australian Capital Territory Forecast Districts.

Issued at 2:09 am Saturday, 29 January 2022.

Slow moving clusters of thunderstorms will continue to produce locally heavy rainfall.

Weather Situation
A very humid and moisture rich airmass over western and southern New South Wales is leading to slow moving thunderstorm clusters capable of very heavy rainfall this morning.
HEAVY RAINFALL for the following areas:
Central West Slopes and Plains, South West Slopes, Riverina, Upper Western, Snowy Mountains and Australian Capital Territory
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 Wagga Wagga, Albury, Tumbarumba, Griffith, Narrandera and Wanaaring.

The State Emergency Service advises that people should:
* 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.

The next warning is due to be issued by 5:10 am.
Warnings are also available through TV and Radio broadcasts, the Bureau's website at www.bom.gov.au or call 1300 659 210. The Bureau and State Emergency Service would appreciate warnings being broadcast regularly.