A slow-moving trough, combined with unstable tropical moisture, generated widespread lightning activity over the Lasseter and Tanami districts last night.

Over thirty-thousand flashes of lightning were detected in this area before sunrise this morning.

Locally heavy falls of rain were also reported, with 28mm at Kulgera and 13mm at Curtin Springs. Heavier falls most likely occurred, but were not recorded due to the sparsity of rain gauges in this part of the country.

Thunderstorm activity slowly lost intensity later this morning, but will increase again this afternoon and evening over similar areas, with another light show on the cards tonight.

Western parts of South Australia also saw storms this morning, with storms spreading into central parts of the state this afternoon.