Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology New South Wales TOP PRIORITY FOR IMMEDIATE BROADCAST Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Heavy Rainfall for parts of Mid North Coast, Hunter, South West Slopes, Riverina and Snowy Mountains Forecast Districts. Issued at 8:59 am Thursday, 19 March 2026. Locally heavy rainfall about the northern Hunter and near the Victorian border. Weather Situation A line of slow moving showers and storms have formed about the northern Hunter near Dungog and are generating locally heavy falls. Slow moving showers and storms are also moving through southern parts of the state to the west of the Snowy Mountains. HEAVY RAINFALL for the following areas: Mid North Coast, Hunter, South West Slopes, Riverina and Snowy Mountains 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 Albury, Tumbarumba, Seal Rocks, Bulahdelah, Nelson Bay and Dungog. 73 mm was recorded at Dungog Post Office in the 2 hours to 8:57 am 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 12:00 pm. Warnings are also available through TV and Radio broadcasts, the Bureau's website at www.bom.gov.au or call 1300 659 210. The Bureau and State Emergency Service would appreciate warnings being broadcast regularly.