Source: Bureau of Meteorology

For people in Mid North Coast and parts of Hunter, Central West Slopes and Plains and Upper Western Forecast Districts.

Issued at 10:51 am Sunday, 21 November 2021.
Heavy rainfall expected to develop over the Central West Slopes and Plains, the Hunter and the Mid North Coast today.

Weather Situation:
A very humid, tropical airmass extends over northern NSW ahead of an upper trough that is moving into the state today. A trough lying through the inland north of the state is expected to develop into a low pressure centre this afternoon. Meanwhile, a coastal trough is expected to develop along the Mid North Coast.

HEAVY RAINFALL which may lead to flash flooding is forecast to develop in the Central West Slopes and Plains and eastern parts of the Upper Western districts during this afternoon, easing later tonight. Three to six hourly rainfall totals of 60-80mm are forecast, with heavier falls possible with any thunderstorm activity in the area.

HEAVY RAINFALL which may lead to flash flooding is also forecast to develop in southern parts of the Mid North Coast and northern parts of the Hunter late on Sunday afternoon, continuing overnight into Monday morning. Three to six hourly rainfall totals of 80-120mm are possible. There is also some risk of localised damaging wind gusts in the warning area on Sunday night if a small low pressure centre develops near the coast.
Catchments in the inland areas are wet, with minor flood warnings current for the Macquarie and Namoi rivers, and a minor flood watch current for the Castlereagh river. Refer to current flood warnings at http://www.bom.gov.au/nsw/warnings/

Locations which may be affected include Port Macquarie, Taree, Newcastle, Scone, Maitland and Nyngan.

The State Emergency Service advises that people should:
* Don't drive, ride or walk through flood water.
* Keep clear of creeks and storm drains.
* If you are trapped by flash flooding, seek refuge in the highest available place and ring 000 if you need rescue.
* Be aware that run-off from rainfall in fire affected areas may behave differently and be more rapid. It may also contain debris such as ash, soil, trees and rocks.
* After bushfires, heavy rain and the loss of foliage can make the ground soft and heavy, leading to a greater chance of landslides.
* Stay vigilant and monitor conditions. Note that the landscape may have changed following bushfires.
* For emergency help in floods and storms, ring your local SES Unit on 132 500.