Storm warning area extended

Bureau of Meteorology

Tasmania

TOP PRIORITY FOR IMMEDIATE BROADCAST

Severe Thunderstorm Warning

for LARGE HAILSTONES and HEAVY RAINFALL

For people in Western, Upper Derwent Valley, South East, East Coast, Central Plateau, Midlands and parts of Central North Forecast Districts.

Issued at 3:46 pm Sunday, 16 December 2018.

ISOLATED SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS WITH POSSIBLE LARGE HAIL AND HEAVY RAINFALL

Weather Situation: Humid and unsettled conditions are generating slow moving thunderstorms across much of Tasmania today.

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce large hailstones and heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding in the warning area over the next several hours. Locations which may be affected include Swansea, Strahan, New Norfolk, Hobart, Geeveston and Dover.

The State Emergency Service advises that people should: 
* Move your car under cover. 
* 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 6:50 pm.

If severe thunderstorms develop in Hobart and Surrounds, a more detailed Severe Thunderstorm Warning will be issued to people in this area.

Warnings are also available through TV and Radio broadcasts, the Bureau's website at www.bom.gov.au or call 1300 659 216.