Severe weather is on the horizon for Australia’s east coast, with heavy rainfall, strong winds, and large surf predicted for next week. Forecasts indicate that some regions may experience wind gusts approaching 100km/h, alongside potential rainfall amounts of up to 300mm, which could lead to flooding.
Weatherzone reports that an east coast low is forming off the northern New South Wales coastline, with its intensity expected to increase starting Monday. As the weather system strengthens into a possible East Coast Low (ECL) by Tuesday, heavy showers and damaging winds could hit various areas.
Between Monday afternoon and Thursday, rainfall accumulations of 100-200mm are anticipated in regions including the Mid North Coast and Hunter. The situation could extend to the South Coast, as moisture from the Tasman Sea interacts with local topography, particularly around the Central Coast.
Alongside the rain, waves could reach heights of 13 metres, increasing the risk of coastal erosion. While the exact development of the weather system remains uncertain, the Bureau of Meteorology has indicated that rain will commence in NSW from Monday.
Temperatures next week are expected to hover around a maximum of 17°C, with clearer skies and sunshine forecasted for Friday. Historically, Sydney experienced snowfall on this date in 1836, marking what was described as the first snowstorm in the city, with temperatures reported as low as 3°C, significantly impacting local markets.
The remainder of Australia’s weather outlook shows Melbourne bracing for showers during the week, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 13°C, while Canberra is forecast to experience lows of -6°C. Adelaide’s showers are likely to clear by Monday, leading to a comfortable 16°C. Brisbane and Perth are also expected to see showers, while Cairns will enjoy warm weather despite some wet conditions, reaching up to 26°C. Hobart should see sunny spells following a rainy Sunday.