Significant rainfall is anticipated to lead to substantial flooding in several regions of New South Wales (NSW) this week, as forecasters from the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) issue warnings for heavy rain and damaging winds. The Hunter and Mid North Coast areas are expected to experience the most severe weather beginning tomorrow, with Sydney also facing increased rainfall as the week progresses.
The NSW State Emergency Service (SES) is gearing up to respond to potential flood impacts, specifically noting that areas north of Newcastle may see rainfall amounts reaching up to 180mm. The BOM predicts possible 24-hour torrential downpours of 50 to 100mm, with isolated spots potentially experiencing even greater accumulations. In addition to the rainfall, residents should brace for strong winds averaging between 50 and 60 km/h, with gusts that could reach approximately 90 km/h.
Assistant Commissioner Sean Kearns ESM highlighted that rivers and creeks in the region are already exhibiting rising levels, prompting flood warnings for various catchments, including those across the Mid North Coast and Hunter regions. The SES has mobilised flood rescue teams to prepare for the adverse weather conditions and has urged the public to stay vigilant. Motorists are particularly advised to reroute if they encounter flooded roads.
The SES anticipates flooding in multiple rivers, including the Hunter, Williams, Patterson, Myall, Manning, Nambucca, Gloucester, Bellingen, and Orara Rivers. Between Monday and Tuesday, wind gusts of 70-80 km/h are likely along the coast, accompanied by hazardous surf conditions with waves reaching five metres from Sydney to Port Macquarie.
As severe weather began affecting the area over the weekend, the NSW SES responded to 137 calls for assistance, most notably from regions such as Lake Macquarie and Port Stephens, with reports also coming from places as far south as Waverley and Woollahra.
In terms of broader weather patterns, NSW is set to endure a rain-soaked week with overall rainfall predictions of 50 to 100mm. Sydney will start the week with significant rainfall, although forecasts suggest a transition to lighter showers by midweek, with temperatures expected to peak at a cool 20°C.
Meanwhile, the weather outlook for other Australian cities varies. Melbourne will enjoy sunny conditions until Wednesday when rain is expected, Brisbane is forecasted to see a wet start, while Adelaide remains mostly sunny. Hobart will also experience some sunshine breaking through the clouds later in the week, and Perth is set to bask in a pleasant 25°C.