THE Bureau of Meteorology has just issued a severe weather warning for the ACT and surrounding region.

Unlike yesterday’s storm which battered the ACT causing power failures and hundreds of calls to the emergency services, forecasters have advised the ACT State Emergency Service that this storm cell is likely to be slower moving and contain heavy rainfall, but not hail or wind as occurred yesterday.

The warning is current for the next several hours.

ACT State Emergency Service says there are simple things to help protect yourself and your family in the event of a storm:

o Never enter or travel through floodwater;

o Stay indoors, clear of windows;

o Stay clear of creeks, drains, causeways, gutters, streams, fallen trees, power lines and damaged buildings;

o If driving, put your hazard lights on and pull over to the side of the road, keeping clear of drains, causeways, streams, creeks, trees and power lines.

o If outdoors, seek secure shelter away from drains, causeways, streams, creeks, trees and power lines; and

o Listen to local radio and other media for information, updates and advice.

For emergency assistance in floods and storms, call the ACTSES on 132 500.