Millions of residents in NSW are in for a wild ride as a severe storm system is expected to worsen over the next 24 hours.
Metropolitan Sydney, the Mid North Coast, and areas as far south as Bega are in the danger zone.
Wind Gusts and Flash Flooding: The Main Concerns
NSW Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib warned that the situation will deteriorate over the course of the next 24 hours, particularly in the afternoon and evening.
“The sheer size of it is quite enormous,” he said. Wind gusts of up to 125km/h and flash flooding are the main concerns, with residents advised to never drive through floodwaters.
SES Responds to 600 Calls and Prepares for More
The NSW State Emergency Service (SES) has responded to 600 calls over the past 24 hours and expects a similar workload over the next 24 hours.
Residents are warned to prepare for short, sharp rainfall bursts and to stay informed through the Hazards Near Me app or the NSW SES website.
Warragamba Dam Likely to Spill Over
WaterNSW has advised that Warragamba Dam is likely to spill over in the coming days, with the dam currently at 98% capacity.
The small Sydney dams, including Cataract, Cordeaux, Avon, Nepean, and Woronora, are also likely to spill.
Airlines Monitor for Cancellations
Several Virgin and Qantas flights have been cancelled due to the severe weather, with customers advised to check their flight status.
Airlines are monitoring the situation closely and will contact affected passengers.
Where the Rain Will Fall
The Bureau of Meteorology has warned that rainfall will fall across Newcastle, Sydney, and Wollongong, with the heaviest rain expected from Wollongong southwards.
Winds will pick up in Sydney and Newcastle, potentially bringing down trees and sending debris flying.
Volunteers Ready to Respond
About 1000 NSW SES volunteers are on the ground, with the service responding to 600 incidents in the past 24 hours.
Residents are urged to take care while travelling and to avoid non-essential boating activity.
Stay Safe and Informed
Drivers, commuters, and boaters are advised to take extra precautions and stay informed through online updates.
The NSW SES has urged impacted residents to prepare for cyclonic conditions and to stay safe.