Severe thunderstorms are possible this Friday afternoon and evening, prompting the NSW State Emergency Service (SES) to remind people of the risks of high winds, damaging hail and heavy rain.
NSW SES Chief Superintendent Dallas Burnes urged people travelling to major events today to make safe and sensible decisions.
“We may see some very poor weather this afternoon and evening across parts of Sydney, Blue Mountains, Central Coast, Illawarra, parts of the South Coast and eastern parts of the Southern Tablelands,” Chief Superintendent Burnes said.
“The weather expected may make things like travelling hazardous, with high end heavy rain and flash flooding a possibility.
“We are working very closely with the Bureau of Meteorology to monitor the situation and will provide further warnings and updates to the community as required.”
Chief Superintendent Burnes said the NSW SES had increased its rostering of staff, volunteers and incident management personnel ahead of the major events occurring this weekend in Sydney.
“We hope everyone has a very enjoyable time at these events but ask people to plan ahead so they can get there safely,” he said.
“The NSW SES is well prepared to provide assistance and respond to any damage these storms cause. We’re preparing for an increase in incidents due to the expected heavy rainfall.”
Chief Superintendent Burnes recommended installing the Hazards Near Me app, which was recently updated to include warnings for severe weather, as well as floods, tsunami and fires.
You can also stay up to date with our warnings at ses.nsw.gov.au or visiting bom.gov.au for the latest weather advice.
For emergency help in floods, storms, call the NSW State Emergency Service on 132500.
In life threatening situations, call Triple Zero 000 immediately.
