The Hunter region is on high alert after a severe thunderstorm cell unleashed torrential rain, with one location recording a staggering 74 millimetres in just two hours on Sunday morning.
Severe Warnings and Immediate Threats
The Bureau of Meteorology issued urgent severe thunderstorm warnings for the Hunter, pinpointing dangerous conditions. By 10:45am, storms were impacting areas including Belmont and Dooralong, southwest of Morisset.
The Bureau warned the systems were forecast to affect Charlestown, Freemans Waterhole, and the Watagan Mountains by 11:15am, moving towards Boolaroo and the Yengo National Park by 11:45am. Authorities have urged the public to take immediate precautions.
Stay clear of creeks and storm drains, avoid driving through flood water, and seek the highest ground if caught in a flash flood. If rescue is needed, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.
Widespread Soaking and Rising Incidents
The deluge was not an isolated event. A broader heavy rainfall warning remains in force for Newcastle, Maitland, Morisset, Gosford, and Wyong. Since midnight Saturday, numerous gauges have recorded significant falls.
Nobbys Headland recorded 29.4mm by 11am Sunday, with Maitland Airport and Cooranbong not far behind. The intense rainfall has led to a sharp rise in emergency incidents across the state.
In the 24 hours to 5am Sunday, the NSW State Emergency Service responded to 1403 incidents and performed 20 flood rescues statewide. The northern zone, which includes the Hunter, accounted for 472 of those calls for help.
Community Impact and Ongoing Risks
Acting Assistant Commissioner of the NSW SES, Oyston, said crews had been “exceptionally busy” dealing with dangerous flash flooding that closed roads. “We anticipate some may remain closed for some time,” he stated, pleading with the community to never drive into floodwaters.
Some communities face extended isolation. Residents in Yarramalong and Dooralong have been warned they may be cut off for 24 to 36 hours due to rising levels in the Wyong River and Jilliby Creek.
The severe weather also caused major issues in Sydney, where a life-threatening flash flooding emergency was declared near Narrabeen Lagoon on Saturday night. An evacuation centre was set up at Mona Vale Memorial Hall, with floodwaters expected to take days to recede. A landslide was also reported near Barrenjoey Headland, affecting three properties.
With more storms forecast, authorities are urging Hunter residents to stay informed via official warnings and prepare for further disruptive weather.
