Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology New South Wales TOP PRIORITY FOR IMMEDIATE BROADCAST Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Heavy Rainfall for parts of Central Tablelands, Central West Slopes and Plains, Upper Western and North West Slopes and Plains Forecast Districts. Issued at 10:43 pm Saturday, 21 March 2026. Severe thunderstorm complex with heavy rainfall continuing this evening over Central West Slopes and Plains and Upper Western. Weather Situation An upper-level trough located over the central parts of the state is driving persistent thunderstorm activity over central northern parts of the state this evening. HEAVY RAINFALL for the following areas: Central Tablelands, North West Slopes and Plains, Central West Slopes and Plains and Upper Western Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding in the warning area over the next several hours. Locations which may be affected include Dubbo, Coonabarabran, Coonamble, Nyngan, Wellington and Brewarrina. 49.0 MM WAS RECORDED AT BORENORE CREEK (NORTH OF ORANGE) IN THE 30 MINUTES TO 6:34 PM. Cancellation for the following areas: Northern Tablelands,South West Slopes,Riverina,Southern Tablelands,Australian Capital Territory,Snowy Mountains The State Emergency Service advises that people should: * 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. * Stay indoors away from windows, and keep children and pets indoors as well. For emergency help in flood and storms, ring the SES on 132 500. Stay updated on the Hazards Near Me NSW app or the ACT ESA website (https://esa.act.gov.au). The next warning is due to be issued by 1:45 am Sunday. Check https://www.bom.gov.au/weather-and-climate/warnings-and-alerts. Warnings are also available through TV and Radio broadcasts or call 1300 659 210. The Bureau and State Emergency Service would appreciate warnings being broadcast regularly.