THE SUN is shining on Tamworth but storm clouds are brewing, with a severe weather warning now in place for the city.
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The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has warned the Tamworth and Quirindi areas could be hit by damaging winds, large hailstones and heavy rain this afternoon.
The warning was issued just before 1.30pm on Wednesday and the BOM said the wild weather could arrive later in the afternoon.
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"Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce damaging winds, large hailstones and heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding in the warning area over the next several hours," the alert said.
Tamworth and Tambar Springs have been listed as areas that may be affected.
Storms have been building in the region, and the heat has been intense with the mercury in Tamworth reaching 34.1 degrees just after midday. The BOM has forecast it could reach 36 today.
The State Emergency Service (SES) has advised that in the lead-up to a storm and during one, people should:
- Move cars undercover or away from trees
- Secure or put away loose items around the house, yard and balcony
- Keep at least eight metres away from fallen powerlines or objects like fences that could be energised
- Report fallen powerlines to Ausgrid, Endeavour Energy, Essential Energy or Evenergy
- Keep clear of trees, creeks and storm drains
- Don't enter floodwater
- If trapped by flash flooding, seek refuge in the highest location available and call triple zero if needed
- Be aware that run-off from rain may contain debris
- 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
For emergency help in storms, call the NSW SES on 132 500.