As dark, ominous clouds roll towards Wagga, emergency services are urging residents to use common sense, stay indoors and stay safe.

The Bureau of Meteorology issued a severe weather warning on Monday, predicting heavy rain would impact the region on Tuesday and Wednesday. 

With flash flooding likely, NSW SES region controller Jon Gregory reminded children and parents storm drains could be deadly. 

It follows the tragic death of an 11-year-old boy who was swept down an Illawarra drain last week.

Mr Gregory – also a Tumut volunteer –  urged residents to be aware of the dangers when walking, playing or riding near storm drains across the city. 

“There are quite a number around Wagga,” Mr Gregory said. 

“We say it again and again: ‘Never enter flood water’.”

Mr Gregory also said increased wind across recent weeks may have filled gutters, causing blockages that could lead to water backing into the home. 

“A simple tennis ball can block a down-pipe and cause water to get into your home,” Mr Gregory said. 

“So make sure gutter cleaning is going on.”

For emergency help in floods and storms call 132 500. 

If the emergency is life threatening call triple-0 immediately.