Thunderstorms threaten Canberra with damaging winds
Thunderstorms are threatening Canberra with damaging winds as they move from south-west NSW towards the national capital.
The weather bureau is warning severe storms could lash southern NSW with large hailstones and heavy rainfall leading to flash flooding on Tuesday afternoon.
Canberra is in the path of an approaching line of storms expected to hit later in the afternoon or in the evening.
Damaging wind gusts are more likely further west in NSW and may locally raise dust, and the east is likely to receive heavy rainfall and large hail.
Bureau of Meteorology senior forecaster Jordan Notara said a trough over the inland was driving the thunderstorms that would pass over the Brindabella Range into Canberra.
The storms were threatening the national capital with damaging winds gusts, and more thunderstorms could develop and hit Canberra ahead of the front.
Storms could continue on Wednesday in the ACT although these are forecast to be less severe, and rain will return later in the week.
Emergency services are advising people to move their car under cover or away from trees, secure or put away loose items around the house, yard and balcony and keep at least eight metres away from fallen power lines or objects that may be energised, such as fences.
Canberrans are also urged to:
- Keep clear of creeks and storm drains.
- Not to walk, ride bikes or drive through flood water.
- If 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.