The Bureau of Meteorology has warned that severe thunderstorms could break in the south-western sections of the ACT.
"Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding and damaging wind gusts of 90 to 100km/h in the warning area over the next several hours," the bureau said early on Boxing Day afternoon.
"Locations which may be affected include Bega, Bombala, Selwyn, Adaminaby, Nimmitabel and Khancoban.
"If severe thunderstorms develop in Canberra and Queanbeyan, a more detailed severe thunderstorm warning will be issued to people in this area."
Temperatures in the low 30s were threatening to break as moisture rose in the air and thunderclouds formed.
#Thunderstorm warning has been issued for southern parts of #NSW and #ACT, especially elevated terrain. Primary hazards are damaging winds and heavy rainfall. Locations include #MountGinini. Check for details and updates at https://t.co/rF2PozEo1F pic.twitter.com/w1chIgnzx0
— Bureau of Meteorology Australian Capital Territory (@BOM_ACT) December 26, 2022
The high temperatures were forecast to last until Wednesday and then drop to the mid 20s from Thursday.
In the event of heavy rain, the State Emergency Service advised people to:
- 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.
