NSW residents warned of possible flash flooding

As major flood warnings are issued, power supply issues stemming from storm damage have resulted in those with solar panels in SA being asked to disable them.

Major flood warnings have been issued across the eastern seaboard as residents are warned to act quickly on emergency alerts.

Power supply issues stemming from storm damage in South Australia have resulted in customers with solar panels in the state being asked to disable them to “stabilise the energy system”.

Widespread thunderstorms, some described as severe, are expected to produce damaging winds and heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding and large hailstones in southeast, central and central west NSW.

The Bureau of Meteorology said isolated rainfall of up to 100mm in just six hours could be expected in some areas. “Six-hourly rainfall totals of 40-80mm are possible, with isolated falls of up to 100mm; 24-hourly rainfall totals 80-120mm are possible, with isolated falls up to 150mm near the alpine peaks,” it said.

It warned of locally intense rainfall that could lead to dangerous flash flooding. Rain is expected to ease on Monday morning.

A flood watch was issued for parts of the NSW northwest, central west and southwest inland rivers. Twelve flood warnings are in place for NSW, seven relating to major flooding in inland areas.

NSW Emergency Services Minister Steph Cook said flooded communities in western NSW would need to be on high alert for potential flash floods.

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