Orange is at the heart of a severe weather warning issued by the bureau of meteorology.
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The warning says an upper trough and surface trough are combining to generate thunderstorms across eastern NSW on Friday, February 16 with the risk of localised heavy falls this afternoon.
Orange received 15mm of rain overnight as more storm clouds rolled through the region.
Friday afternoon's warning also includes Central Tablelands centres like Bowral, Bathurst, Katoomba, Crookwell and Taralga.
The warning says severe thunderstorms are likely to produce heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding in the warning area over the next several hours.
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 5pm.
