A severe thunderstorm warning for Canberra has been cancelled.
Earlier, the bureau said the thunderstorm was likely to bring large large hailstones, heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding and damaging winds in the warning area. The warning was issued shortly after 3pm and Canberra was no longer included on the 6pm update.
"An upper low and a very moist airmass combine to generate severe thunderstorms this afternoon and into the evening. Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding over the next several hours in the South Coast and parts of the Illawarra, Southern Tablelands and Snowy Mountains districts. Locations which may be affected include Batemans Bay, Eden, Braidwood, Bega, Moruya Heads and Bombala," the bureau said in a statement.
But there is the likelihood of a reprieve on the way. The chance of rain in Canberra on Thursday and Friday drops to 30 per cent, although the chance of a thunderstorm remains on each day.
The long weekend is likely to be drier, but then a higher chance of rain and storms returns on Tuesday.
The State Emergency Service has advised people to:
- Move cars 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.
- 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.
- Unplug computers and appliances.
- Avoid using the phone during the storm.
- Stay indoors away from windows, and keep children and pets indoors as well.
- For emergency help in floods and storms, ring the SES (NSW and ACT) on 132 500.
