Don't put your umbrellas away just yet - more thunderstorms are on their way and expected to cause havoc during peak hour for commuters on their drive homes tonight.
Currently thunderstorms are occurring across the Riverina and Southern Slopes of New South Wales, and the Bureau of Meteorology is predicting more severe storms are likely across the east of the State this afternoon into this evening. These storms are expected to impact North of Newcastle all the way down to the Victorian border.
NSW SES Assistant Commissioner, Paul Bailey is urging residents to prepare for the upcoming wet weather.
"Destructive winds, large hail and heavy rain leading to flash flooding is expected this afternoon, so the NSW SES is asking residents to plan ahead before the storms hit. I'm urging people to ask themselves the questions what would you do with your pets, your car or loose outdoor furniture if a storm was to hit?" said Mr Bailey.
"People can help prevent storm damage around their properties by trimming back overhanging branches, cleaning gutters and downpipes and securing or putting away loose items around the yard or balcony. It's also important to avoid parking your cars under trees and powerlines," added Mr Bailey.
Flash flooding in fire affected areas as well as heavily populated urban areas such as the Sydney Metro is a focus for the NSW SES this afternoon. The Minister for Police and Emergency Services, David Elliott is urging the community to avoid driving through flooded roads.
"I'm asking members of the community to take it easy on the roads this afternoon as these severe storms move across the State. Make sure you make safe decisions and take the time to plan your trip, check for road closures and traffic conditions before you get on the road," said Mr Elliott.
"I also want people in fire affected areas to be aware that run-off from rainfall in fire affected areas may behave differently and be more rapid resulting in flash flooding which may also contain debris such as ash, soil, trees and rocks," continued Mr Elliott.
