For the second time in three days a severe thunderstorm warning has been issued for the Central West, including Orange, Dubbo and Bathurst.
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Dark clouds had been building up over the region on the morning of Sunday (February 18) and shortly before 1pm the Bureau of Meteorology pulled the trigger, issuing the warning.
The warning is for severe thunderstorms developing across the ranges in central eastern NSW with heavy rainfall possibly leading to flash flooding.
Also included in the warning are Oberon, Lithgow, Mudgee, Connabarabran, Wellingto and Kandos and further to the south, Crookwell and Goulburn.
Here we go again
Orange Airport received 29 millimetres in the 30 minutes to 12.45pm on Sunday.
A severe weather warning was earlier issued for the region on Friday (February 16).
Orange had received 15mm of rain overnight as more storm clouds rolled through the region.
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 3.50pm.
