Heavy rainfall and severe storms are impacting large areas of New South Wales, with more wet weather expected throughout the weekend. Parts of the south coast have already recorded over 100mm of rainfall, with Moruya receiving 146mm and Bodalla 136mm overnight on Friday.
Storms Track Northward
According to Bureau of Meteorology senior meteorologist Dean Narramore, the storm system is moving northward. The Illawarra, Sydney, Central Coast, and Hunter regions are forecast to experience showers and thunderstorms capable of producing 30-50mm of rainfall, with isolated falls potentially reaching 80-100mm. Heavy storms struck the north Parramatta area Saturday morning, delivering 35mm of rain in just half an hour.
Flash flooding has already occurred in Mona Vale and Palm Beach. Approximately 750 State Emergency Service (SES) volunteers are currently responding to incidents across the state.
SES Urges Caution
Acting Assistant Commissioner Sonya Oyston, the NSW SES state duty commander, is urging residents to monitor weather warnings closely, as heavy rain and storms are expected to continue for the next 48 hours. Oyston emphasized that many catchments are becoming saturated, increasing the risk of flash flooding. SES crews have already conducted flood rescues in Albion Park, Picton, and Marulan, assisting individuals trapped in vehicles.
This wet weather in NSW follows recent severe storms in Victoria, where 180mm of rain fell in six hours on Lorne and Wye River, causing flash flooding and damage to campgrounds along the Great Ocean Road.
Hazardous surf warnings are in effect for the east coast, stretching from Newcastle to Batemans Bay and including the Eden coast. NSW Police are advising people to stay out of the water and avoid surf-exposed areas, and rock fishers are urged to seek safe shelter.
Further north, Coramba, near Coffs Harbour, experienced hailstones measuring 5-7cm on Friday, with more storms anticipated. North-east NSW, including the mid-north coast and Northern Rivers, and south-east Queensland could also face severe storms bringing large hail, damaging winds, and heavy rainfall.
Looking Ahead
While more wet weather is expected in NSW on Sunday, conditions are forecast to ease on Monday, with westerly winds and warmer temperatures potentially returning later in the week. Conditions in Victoria are already improving, with only isolated showers and thunderstorms predicted for the far east and north-east of the state. Widespread flood warnings remain in place across much of inland, northern, and western Queensland, and a tropical low is expected to bring heavy storms to the Top End and Kimberley regions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What areas are currently most affected by the storms?
The NSW south coast has already experienced significant rainfall, with Moruya and Bodalla receiving over 100mm. The Illawarra, Sydney, Central Coast, and Hunter regions are expected to be heavily impacted by ongoing showers and thunderstorms.
What is the NSW SES doing to respond to the situation?
The NSW State Emergency Service has responded to 880 requests for assistance and has approximately 750 volunteers on the ground responding to incidents, including flood rescues in Albion Park, Picton, and Marulan.
What is the forecast for the coming days?
More wet weather is expected in NSW on Sunday, with conditions easing on Monday. Severe storms are also forecast for parts of Queensland, and a tropical low is expected to bring heavy rainfall to the Top End and Kimberley regions.
How will you prepare for potential severe weather in your area?
