Wind gusts of up to 70 kilometres an hour shook the territory, while 16 millimetres of rain had fallen by 7pm.

The rain was so intense that the roof of the House of Representatives began leaking and a bucket was called for.

The ACT State Emergency Service said the issue was not isolated. They had received 25 calls for help by 7pm including a fallen tree on a house in Hackett.

The ACT SES Majura Unit attended the Brannan Street home which sustained minor damage.

Most calls for help were related to leaking roofs and damaged branches falling from trees.

The service urged the community to stay clear of flooded drains and waterways and for motorists to take care and drive to the conditions.

The Bureau of Meteorology originally issued a severe thunderstorm warning for the ACT and region, saying damaging winds were likely and there was the possibility of large hail.

The warning said storms were affecting Belconnen, Canberra Civic, Gungahlin, Canberra Airport, South Canberra, Weston Creek and Woden Valley and would hit Queanbeyan, Tuggeranong and Hume by 3.10pm.

Speaker Bronwyn Bishop noted the roof of Parliament House was leaking and called for a bucket during the afternoon.

"Our roof is leaking. I realise that leaking is a familiar problem for political parties but I think we may need a bucket," she said.

Politicians quickly jumped on board the joke.

Residents can call the ACT SES on 132 500 for storm or flood assistance.