A severe thunderstorm warning for damaging winds, large hailstones, and heavy rainfall has been issued for the Canberra region this afternoon, Tuesday 19 December.

If you need support during storms and floods call the ACT State Emergency Service on 132 500.

The weather situation can change rapidly, check here for weather updates and warnings.

A trough extending from northwest NNSW through central parts of the state and down to the ACT is generating severe thunderstorms in a hot and humid environment ahead of a strengthening upper trough.

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce conditions that may lead to flash flooding in the warning area over the next several hours.

Locations which may be affected include Canberra, Goulburn, Taree, Newcastle, Gosford, Tamworth, Tibooburra and Cobar.