Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology New South Wales TOP PRIORITY FOR IMMEDIATE BROADCAST Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Heavy Rainfall for parts of Riverina and Lower Western Forecast Districts. Issued at 7:54 pm Tuesday, 24 February 2026. Severe thunderstorms with heavy rainfall over the far southwest of the state this evening. Weather Situation A very humid airmass combines with a slow-moving trough of low-pressure to trigger severe thunderstorms with heavy rainfall over the Lower West and Riverina this evening. HEAVY RAINFALL for the following areas: Riverina and Lower 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 Wentworth and Balranald. A separate Severe Weather Warning for heavy rainfall is also current for Lower Western and Upper Western Forecast Districts. Please check https://www.bom.gov.au/weather-and-climate/warnings-and-alerts for more information. 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 10:55 pm. 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.