UPDATE: Over 200 requests for assistance (RFAs) have been received by the ACT State Emergency Services (ACTSES) after thunderstorms in the ACT last night, with similar weather predicted for this afternoon, Sunday 19 December.
Strong winds caused several trees to fall in Canberra’s suburbs, blocking roads and damaging power lines and properties. An 89km/h wind gust was observed at Canberra Airport at 6:39PM.
For assistance in a storm or flood call the ACTSES on 132 500, in a life-threatening emergency call Triple Zero (000).
EARLIER: The Bureau of Meteorology have issued a severe thunderstorm warning for the ACT for damaging winds and large hailstones over the next several hours.
Locations that may be impacted include Canberra, Cooma, Yass, Wagga Wagga, Albury and Griffith.
The ACT State Emergency Services have issued a number of recommendations for Canberrans in preparation for the storm:
- Move your car under cover or away from trees
- Remember to never drive, walk or ride through floodwater.
- Secure or put away loose items around your house, yard and balcony
- Keep at least 8 metres away from fallen power lines
- Stay indoors away from windows
Visit www.esa.act.gov.au/be-emergency-ready or www.bom.gov.au for more information.
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