Key Takeaways
- Heavy rainfall and damaging winds are forecast for the NSW South Coast, prompting warnings for holidaymakers to leave campgrounds or risk being trapped by rising waters.
- Significant falls of up to 80mm of rain are expected in six hours, with a severe weather warning issued for the NSW South Coast on Friday.
- A wet weekend is forecast for Sydney, with up to 100mm of rain expected on Saturday and Sunday, and potential thunderstorms developing around the state.
- Parts of the South Coast have already received significant rain, with some areas receiving over 100mm of rain in a 24-hour period.
- Volunteer rescuers have been put in position to rapidly respond to any emergencies, with NSW SES chief superintendent Dallas Burnes warning holidaymakers to be cautious if camping near creeks, rivers, or lakes.
Introduction to Severe Weather Warning
The NSW South Coast is bracing itself for severe weather, with heavy rainfall, damaging winds, and potential flash floods forecast for the region. The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a severe weather warning for the area, prompting warnings for holidaymakers to leave campgrounds or risk being trapped by rising waters. The warning comes after parts of the South Coast have already received significant rain, with some areas receiving over 100mm of rain in a 24-hour period. The severe weather warning is in place for Friday, with significant falls of up to 80mm of rain expected in six hours.
Rainfall and Flash Flooding
The rainfall is expected to be intense, with the Bureau of Meteorology warning of significant falls along the NSW South Coast through Friday morning. The rain is forecast to be heavy, with up to 80mm of rain expected in six hours, which could lead to flash flooding in the area. Flash flooding is a major concern, as it can wash away vehicles and flood campgrounds, as seen in Victoria recently. The NSW State Emergency Service (SES) is warning holidaymakers to be cautious if camping near creeks, rivers, or lakes, as water levels can rise quickly and cut off road access.
Impact on Holidaymakers
The severe weather warning has significant implications for holidaymakers in the area. The NSW SES is warning people to leave campgrounds or risk being trapped by rising waters. Volunteer rescuers have been put in position to rapidly respond to any emergencies, but the SES is urging people to take precautions and avoid the area if possible. NSW SES chief superintendent Dallas Burnes said crews have been visiting high-risk areas, including popular campgrounds along the South Coast, warning holidaymakers of the danger. The warning is particularly important for people camping near creeks, rivers, or lakes, as the water levels can rise quickly and cut off road access.
Wet Weekend in Sydney
The severe weather is not limited to the South Coast, with a wet weekend forecast for Sydney. Up to 100mm of rain is expected on Saturday and Sunday, with potential thunderstorms developing around the state. The rain is expected to be heavy at times, which could lead to flash flooding in the city. The Bureau of Meteorology is warning of a high chance of thunderstorms, which could bring heavy rain and strong winds to the area. The wet weather is expected to continue into next week, with the Bureau of Meteorology forecasting a high chance of rain for the next few days.
Preparations and Response
The NSW SES is well-prepared for the severe weather, with volunteer rescuers in position to rapidly respond to any emergencies. The SES has been visiting high-risk areas, warning holidaymakers of the danger and urging them to take precautions. The Bureau of Meteorology is also providing regular updates on the weather forecast, warning of significant falls and potential flash flooding. The NSW government is also urging people to take precautions, with the Minister for Emergency Services warning of the dangers of flash flooding. The community is being urged to stay safe and follow the instructions of emergency services during the severe weather event.
