Severe thunderstorm warning issued for central regions of NSW

The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a severe storm warning with damaging winds and large hailstones forecast in part of the Central West Slopes and Plains, Riverina, Lower Western and Upper Western forecast districts.

Read the full media release from BOM below:

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce damaging winds and large hailstones in the warning area over the next several hours. Locations which may be affected include Nyngan, Cobar, Bourke, Brewarrina, Tilpa and Fords Bridge.

The State Emergency Service advises that people should:

* Move your car under cover or away from trees.

* Secure or put away loose items around your house, yard and balcony.

* Keep clear of fallen power lines.

* 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.

The next warning is due to be issued by 4:05 pm.

Warnings are also available through TV and Radio broadcasts, the Bureau's website at www.bom.gov.au or call 1300 659 218. The Bureau and State Emergency Service would appreciate warnings being broadcast regularly.