The weather alert comes as Wagga has experienced heat of up to 40 degrees throughout Saturday.

According to today's forecast severe thunderstorms are likely in and around Wagga and Tumbarumba, while severe thunderstorms are possible in Deniliquin, Hay, Griffith, West Wyalong and Young.

Damaging wind gusts is the primary risk, according to the SES, but over the south and southeast there's an added risk of large hail and heavy rainfall.

Meanwhile, the NSW Rural Fire Service is requesting harvest operators across the Riverina immediately stop and check local weather conditions before deciding whether it is safe to continue, due to the hot weather and strong winds.

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This includes harvest operators in the Wagga local government area, as well as Carrathool, Federation, Griffith, Hay, Leeton, Narrandera, Edward River, Murray River, Murrumbidgee, Junee, Coolamon and Lockhart.

"Under the current conditions, fires will start easily and spread rapidly. They have the potential to threaten life and property, as well as destroying millions of dollars worth of crop and equipment," the NSW RFS said in a statement.

"The NSW RFS appreciates the cooperation of farmers on days of heightened fire danger.

"Stopping harvesting until weather conditions ease lowers the risk of fires breaking out and can prevent a great deal of damage."

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