![](https://regionriverina.com.au/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2023/01/bom-warning-jan-18.png)
A severe thunderstorm warning has been issued for large parts of NSW. Photo: BoM.
Severe thunderstorms are expected to develop across large parts of southern and western NSW as a cold front sweeps across the state.
The Bureau of Meteorology has warned damaging winds and heavy rainfall are likely to develop as a result of the system change, with an alert issued for the South West Slopes and parts of the Central Tablelands, Southern Tablelands, Central West Slopes and Plains, Lower Western and Riverina forecast districts.
Flash flooding could also occur in the warning area over the next several hours.
Locations that could be impacted include Goulburn, Yass, West Wyalong, Cootamundra, Gundagai, Tumut, Temora and Junee.
The NSW State Emergency Service have advised people they 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 (131 388), Endeavour Energy (131 003), Essential Energy (132 080) or Evoenergy (131 093) as shown on your power bill
- Trees that have been damaged by fire are likely to be more unstable and more likely to fall
- 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 on 132 500. More information can be found on the NSW SES website.
Original Article published by Claire Fenwicke on About Regional.