Sydneysiders have been alerted to brace for more extreme weather after a sudden storm hit the city last night, resulting in widespread power outages and significant disruptions to public transport. The Bureau of Meteorology’s Senior Meteorologist, Christie Johnston, reported that the storm brought strong winds, heavy rainfall, and hail in some areas.
The storm system has since moved offshore, but a cold front is expected to follow, potentially bringing more severe weather today. Johnston mentioned that while the threat of severe storms persists, they are likely to manifest as damaging winds primarily in the southeastern regions of New South Wales due to an offshore low-pressure system causing turbulent weather conditions.
Forecasts predict that temperatures in Sydney will reach a maximum of 21 degrees today accompanied by strong winds. The previous storm grounded Metro services between Sydenham and Chatswood and plunged thousands into darkness.
While transport services have resumed, the impacts of the storm were felt significantly, particularly at Brookvale Oval, where the venue lost power just prior to a scheduled NRL match between the Roosters and Sea Eagles. The game proceeded normally once conditions improved.
The central western areas of the state also faced the fury of the storm, with recorded wind gusts of up to 115km/h causing incidents like a crane toppling in Dubbo. Fortunately, the operator of the crane emerged unscathed.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed as weather conditions evolve, and remain prepared for any further disruptions.