Source: Bureau of Meteorology

For people in parts of Central Tablelands and Central West Slopes and Plains Forecast Districts.

Issued at 6:28 pm Saturday, 4 January 2025.

Heavy rainfall continues in the Central Tablelands this evening.

Weather Situation: A moist and unstable airmass is producing severe thunderstorms along central eastern and southeastern parts of NSW this afternoon. This activity is expected to progress slowly northwards throughout the afternoon.

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding in the warning area over the next several hours. Locations which may be affected include Orange, Wellington, Blayney and Hill End.

36 MM WAS RECORDED AT OBERON (JENOLAN CAVES ROAD) IN THE 30 MINUTES TO 3:23 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.