Warnings from the Australian Bureau of Meteorology say severe thunderstorms will continue to develop in several parts of the Western Plains for the remainder of this afternoon (Wednesday 10 November).

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce damaging winds and heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding over the next several hours in the Hunter, North West Slopes and Plains, Central West Slopes and Plains and parts of the Central Tablelands and Upper Western districts. Locations which may be affected include Coonamble, Gilgandra and Lightning Ridge.

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce damaging winds, large hailstones and heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding over the next several hours in parts of the Central Tablelands and North West Slopes and Plains districts. Locations which may be affected include Walgett, Narrabri and Moree.

According to Elders Weather, as of 5pm on Wednesday 10 November, rainfall varied across the Western Plains. Coonamble had seen 14mm, Nyngan had seen 1.8mm, Walgett had seen 8mm, Gilgandra had seen 4.6mm, Bourke had seen 4.6mm and Cobar had seen 0mm. More was expected in the forecast for towns like Gilgandra however of between 20-40mm.

A map showing the towns at risk of severe thunderstorms on Wednesday afternoon. Photo courtesy of Australian Bureau of Meteorology

The State Emergency Service (SES) advises that people at risk of severe thunderstorms should:

* Move your car under cover or away from trees.

* Secure or put away loose items around your house, yard and balcony.

* Keep at least 8 metres away from fallen power lines or objects that may be energised, such as fences.

* Report fallen power lines to either Ausgrid (131 388), Endeavour Energy (131 003), Essential Energy (132 080) or Evoenergy (131 093) as shown on your power bill.

* Trees that have been damaged by fire are likely to be more unstable and more likely to fall.

* 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.

The next warning is due to be issued by 7:35 pm. Click here for the latest update.

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