A severe storm is approaching South Australia, prompting warnings of significant tides and damaging winds. Emergency services volunteers have been placed on high alert, especially along the coast. The coastal hazard warning affects several regions, including the Adelaide metropolitan area, Port Lincoln, Whyalla, Port Augusta, Port Pirie, Port Wakefield, and Victor Harbor.
The situation is expected to escalate overnight, with tides predicted to exceed the normal high tide mark significantly by tomorrow afternoon. Forecasts indicate that sea levels at Outer Harbour could reach up to 3.8 metres, nearing the 3.9-metre mark recorded during a recent major weather event just four weeks ago. The State Emergency Service (SES) foresees potential damage comparable to that experienced during the last storm, which caused extensive damage to jetties that required closure.
The Eyre Peninsula has already experienced the initial impacts of strong winds. Near Adelaide, gusts of wind could reach speeds of up to 90km/h in the southern Mount Lofty Ranges and along parts of the metropolitan coastline. Additionally, rain is anticipated, with expected totals ranging from 30 to 50 millimetres in the Mount Lofty Ranges and southern coastal areas, along with the possibility of thunderstorms.
These severe weather conditions are projected to persist until Wednesday morning, and the public is advised to prepare accordingly.