NSW Braces for Storms, Flash Flooding Over Long Weekend
By Harry Taruva — Severe thunderstorms, heavy rain, damaging winds and flash flooding are forecast across Sydney, the Illawarra, Central West and other parts of NSW, with rainfall of up to 100mm possible. NSW SES has urged residents to prepare, monitor warnings and avoid driving or walking through floodwater.
Harry Taruva 
Sydney — Severe thunderstorms, heavy rain and flash flooding are forecast across parts of New South Wales over the long weekend, prompting the NSW State Emergency Service (SES) to urge residents to prepare for rapidly changing conditions.
The SES said a cold front would bring widespread thunderstorms to the Central West, South Coast, Illawarra and Greater Sydney from Friday through Sunday before moving northeast early next week.
The storms could produce flash flooding, damaging winds and large hail, with rainfall of up to 100mm possible in some areas.
Minor flooding is also forecast across several river systems.
NSW SES Acting Assistant Commissioner, Brigid Rice, said emergency crews and resources had been strategically positioned across the state to respond quickly if communities were affected.
“We are closely monitoring the forecast alongside our partner agencies and will continue to adjust our operations as conditions develop,” Rice said.
“Flash flooding remains our biggest concern during this forecast weather. Conditions can change very quickly, and roads that appear safe can become dangerous within minutes," he said.
The SES warned residents against attempting to cross flooded roads or waterways, saying floodwater could conceal debris, road damage and other hazards.
“Never drive, ride or walk through floodwater,” Rice said, “Floodwater often hides damage, debris and other hazards beneath the surface.”
The agency urged households and businesses to use the lead-up to the storm system to secure their properties and monitor official warnings.
“By taking a few simple steps today and staying informed throughout the weekend, people can reduce their risk and be ready to act if conditions worsen,” Rice said.
Residents have been urged to monitor weather forecasts and warnings, secure loose outdoor items that could become airborne, park vehicles undercover or away from trees where possible, and clean gutters and drains to improve water flow around properties.
Rice also encouraged residents to use the Hazards Near Me app, monitor forecasts from the Bureau of Meteorology and follow directions from emergency services.
The NSW SES said emergency assistance during floods and storms is available on 132 500, while people facing a life-threatening emergency should call Triple Zero (000).
