What You Need To Know About Today’s Monster Storm In NSW

A low pressure system is building in Australia and is set to dump two months’ worth of rain on Sydney and surrounds in less than a day. As if this wasn’t enough, the area is set to be buffeted by intense and dangerous winds for the second time in as many weeks, and flash flooding is expected in some areas. Here’s what you need to know if you live in NSW.

The low pressure system is currently moving east over Australia, and is expected to intensify as it reaches the coast. The areas likely to be affected by the heavy rainfall and winds start in the west around Katoomba and the Blue Mountains, and extend to the Greater Sydney area and down to Wollongong and the south coast.

Heavy rainfall is expected to start in the morning and continue through the day, with a small lapse in the afternoon. The winds are expected to pick up later and continue through to early Thursday.

While Sydney has only had around 40mm of rain this month so far, tomorrow’s storm has the potential to drop anywhere between 60 and 120mm on the city. In Sydney’s south-west and towards Wollongong, rainfall could reach up to 150mm over the course of the day.

Expect high winds as well as rain, with peak gusts exceeding 90km/h. Winds can be the most damaging parts of these storms, with the potential to knock trees onto buildings, vehicles and powerlines, and can knock out power to parts of the city.

There’s also a warning for flash floods on the Hawkesbury-Nepean, George’s River and Cook’s river, with the high amount of rain being forecast for such a short time. If you’re in a flood prone-area, make sure to keep an eye out on the Bureau of Meteorology and SES NSW pages.

What You Should Do

The SES advises to prepare for the storm by moving or securing items that might become dangerous in high winds, and moving cars our of harm’s way. They advise:

  • Move vehicles under cover or away from trees.
  • Secure or put away loose items around your house, yard and balcony.
  • Keep at least 8 metres away from fallen power lines or objects that may be energised, such as fences.
  • Report fallen power lines to either Ausgrid on 131 388, or Endeavour Energy on 131 003 or Essential Energy on 132 080, as shown on your power bill.
  • Don’t drive, ride or walk through flood water.
  • Keep clear of creeks and storm drains.
  • If you are trapped by flash flooding, seek refuge in the highest available place and ring 000 if you need rescue.
  • For emergency help in floods and storms, ring your local SES Unit on 132 500.

If your business is in flood-prone areas or is vulnerable to storm damage, make sure you back up all your data in case of power outages, and move stock that could be damaged by flooding or leaking.

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