A severe thunderstorm warning issued for the ACT on Monday night has been cancelled.
The Bureau of Meteorlogy said a "moist and unstable airmass is producing isolated heavy falls with thunderstorms".
"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 Mount Ginini, Tidbinbilla and Tumut," it said in a statement.
The ACT Emergency Services Agency said parts of Canberra were already experiencing rain, as of 10pm, and this is likely to continue for several hours. Rain was easing shortly after midnight, and the bureau said earlier the threat of a thunderstorm affecting Canberra and Queanbeyan had passed.
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.
- 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.
- Unplug computers and appliances.
- Avoid using the phone during the storm.
- Stay indoors away from windows, and keep children and pets indoors as well.
- Stay vigilant and monitor conditions. Note that the landscape may have changed following bushfires.
- For emergency help in floods and storms, ring the SES (NSW and ACT) on 132 500.
