Source: Bureau of Meteorology

For people in parts of Lower Western and Upper Western Forecast Districts.

Issued at 5:50 pm Tuesday, 15 March 2022.

LOCALLY INTENSE RAINFALL NEAR BROKEN HILL, HEAVY RAINFALL OVER REMAINDER OF AREA.

Weather Situation:
A humid and unstable airmass is combining with an approaching upper level disturbance to produce severe thunderstorms today across western parts of the state. Thunderstorms are slow moving with evidence of INTENSE rainfall and flooding around Broken Hill. Thunderstorm activity is expected to increase into early evening and then reduce late evening.

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce intense rainfall that may lead to dangerous and life-threatening flash flooding over the next several hours in parts of the Lower Western and Upper Western districts. Locations which may be affected include Broken Hill and Menindee.

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding over the next several hours in parts of the Lower Western and Upper Western districts. Locations which may be affected include Tibooburra, White Cliffs, Broken Hill, Menindee, Fowlers Gap and Milparinka.

Broken Hill recorded 35 mm in the 1 hour to 3.45 pm CDST. Evidence of much heavier falls around Broken Hill.

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.