Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Heavy Rainfall Issued for Upper Western NSW

Alert Details

The Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning (IDN21033) for heavy rainfall. This is a top-priority alert for immediate broadcast for residents in New South Wales.

Affected Areas

The warning specifically covers parts of the Upper Western Forecast District. Locations that may be affected by these conditions include Wanaaring.

What You Should Do

The State Emergency Service (SES) advises residents to take the following safety precautions:

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

Expected Conditions

A moist and unstable airmass is currently combining with a cold front moving through the Upper Western district to produce slow-moving severe thunderstorms. These storms are likely to produce heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding in the warning area over the next several hours.

Timeline

The alert was issued at 5:51 pm on Monday, 2 March 2026. The hazardous conditions are expected to continue through the evening. The Bureau of Meteorology expects to issue the next update by 8:55 pm.