Storms Heading Towards Coffs Coast

The Bureau of Meteorology have released their first severe thunderstorm warning for the Mid North Coast in 2017.

According to BOM, the storms are likely to produce heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding in the warning area over the next several hours.

Areas that may be affected in the latest warning include Dorrigo and Ebor to the west of Coffs Harbour, as well as Nymboida.

Thunderstorms have been forecast for Coffs Harbour this afternoon and this evening, which should bring a cooler change after the mercury is set to hit 33 for New Years Day.

See the latest warning from BOM below:

IDN65156

Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology New South Wales

SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING for HEAVY RAINFALL

For people in the Northern Tablelands and parts of the Northern Rivers and Mid North Coast Forecast Districts. 

Issued at 12:08 pm Sunday, 1 January 2017.

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 Tenterfield, Tabulam, Jackadgery, Wollomombi, Copmanhurst, Nymboida, Dorrigo, Ebor, Comboyne, Nowendoc, Gloucester, Wingham and Yarrowitch.

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.

  * Unplug computers and appliances.

  * Avoid using the phone during the storm.

  * Stay indoors away from windows, and keep children and pets indoors as well.

  * For emergency help in floods and storms, ring the SES [NSW and ACT] on 132 500.