The NSW State Emergency Service (NSW SES) has responded to more than 200 jobs in the South Coast and Illawarra regions since midnight, as damaging winds struck coastal areas.
The hardest hit towns have been Dapto and Kiama. The busiest units today have been Wollongong SES unit who so far have responded to 49 jobs, Dapto to 36 jobs and Kiama to 31 jobs.
The callouts included trees falling on cars, buildings and roads; damaged roofs and fallen power lines.
NSW SES Chief Superintendent Tom Jory is warning residents to remain vigilant over the next 24 hours.
“We are still seeing high winds across much of the Illawarra and South coast region,” he said.
“Our volunteers are responding to a number of incidents, and I expect they will be busy well into the afternoon.
“We ask the community to remain vigilant particularly regarding fallen trees and powerlines.
“Secure loose items around your property, and if you can avoid being out and about on the roads that will help keep people safe in during these high winds.”
Winds at Albion Park are gusting over 90 km/h and are expected to remain strong today before decreasing this evening.
A Severe Weather Warning remains in place for damaging winds affecting the Illawarra, South Coast, Central Tablelands, Southern Tablelands, Snowy Mountains and parts of Metropolitan.
Be careful on the roads and plan your trip using livetraffic.com.
Park vehicle undercover and away from trees.
Secure outdoor furniture and loose items.
Stay away from powerlines.
And keep monitoring conditions on the Bureau website:
For emergency help in floods and storms, call the NSW SES on 132 500. In life threatening situations, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.
