The rain clouds rolling in over Bella Vista this afternoon. Picture: Mike Szabath
The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a severed thunderstorm warning for people in parts of western Sydney, including the suburbs of Riverstone and Glenorie.
BOM warns that, at 2.25pm, severe thunderstorms were detected on weather radar near the Mount Tomah Botanic Gardens, Springwood, Bilpin, the Wollemi National Park north of Kurrajong, Penrith and Bargo.
These thunderstorms are moving towards the northeast.
They are forecast to affect Riverstone by 2.55pm and Glenorie by 3.25pm.
Large hailstones, heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding and damaging winds are likely.
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.
■ 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.
■ 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 State Emergency Service [NSW and ACT] on 132 500.