Source: Bureau of Meteorology

For people in Central West Slopes and Plains and parts of Central Tablelands, North West Slopes and Plains, Lower Western and Upper Western Forecast Districts.

Issued at 4:22 pm Wednesday, 2 March 2022.

HEAVY TO INTENSE RAINFALL WITH SLOW MOVING THUNDERSTORMS.

Weather Situation: A humid and unstable atmosphere exists under a slow moving upper level low that is aiding instability.

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding over the next several hours in parts of the Central West Slopes and Plains, Lower Western and Upper Western districts. Locations which may be affected include Bourke, Ivanhoe, Brewarrina, Louth and Fords Bridge.

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce intense rainfall that may lead to dangerous and life-threatening flash flooding over the next several hours in the Central West Slopes and Plains and parts of the Central Tablelands and North West Slopes and Plains districts. Locations which may be affected include Orange, Mudgee, Dubbo, Parkes, Coonamble and Nyngan.

Molong (Bonnie Doon) recorded 60mm of rainfall in the hour to 4 pm.

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.