Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology Tasmania TOP PRIORITY FOR IMMEDIATE BROADCAST Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Heavy Rainfall for parts of North West Coast and Central Plateau Forecast Districts. Issued at 4:11 pm Sunday, 17 May 2026. Heavy rainfall occurring south of Burnie Weather Situation A slow moving surface trough within a moist environment is producing a line of persistent rain and showers in the northwest of the state. This is expected to linger during the afternoon before easing in the early evening. HEAVY RAINFALL for the following areas: North West Coast and Central Plateau Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding in the warning area over the next several hours. The State Emergency Service advises that people should: * Avoid driving, walking or riding through flood waters. * Seek shelter, preferably indoors and never under trees. * Avoid using the telephone during a thunderstorm. * Beware of fallen trees and powerlines. * For emergency assistance contact the SES on 132500. The next warning is due to be issued by 7:15 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.