Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Heavy Rainfall Issued for Hunter Forecast District

Alert Details

The Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for heavy rainfall. This high-priority alert is currently in effect for parts of the Hunter Forecast District in New South Wales.

Affected Areas

The warning specifically covers parts of the Hunter Forecast District. Locations that may be impacted by the developing weather situation include Wallsend. If severe thunderstorms develop in Sydney, Newcastle, or Wollongong, additional detailed warnings may be issued.

What You Should Do

The State Emergency Service (SES) advises residents in the warning area to take the following precautions:

• Keep clear of creeks and storm drains.
• Do not walk, ride your bike, or drive through floodwater.
• If you are trapped by flash flooding, seek refuge in the highest available place and call 000 if you require rescue.
• Stay indoors and away from windows; ensure children and pets are kept inside.
• For emergency help in floods and storms, contact the SES on 132 500.

Expected Conditions

An onshore flow in a moist airmass is currently producing heavy rainfall with showers and thunderstorms. These severe thunderstorms are likely to produce heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding in the warning area over the next several hours.

Timeline

The warning was issued at 10:20 pm Sunday, March 8, 2026. The current weather situation is expected to persist through the evening, with the next update scheduled to be issued by 1:20 am Monday.