The Hunter region is bracing for a dramatic shift in weather conditions, with severe thunderstorms threatening the area just days before the first significant heatwave of 2026 is set to arrive.
Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued
The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a severe weather warning for parts of the Hunter on Sunday afternoon. The bureau warns that severe thunderstorms, likely to produce damaging winds, large hailstones and heavy rainfall, are moving towards the east.
Areas expected to be affected include Maitland, Cessnock and the Central Coast. Residents in these locations are urged to stay informed and take necessary precautions as the storm cells develop.
Scorching Temperatures to Follow
The storm activity precedes a substantial warm-up forecast for the latter part of the week. According to meteorological predictions, Newcastle is set to experience its first temperatures above 30 degrees Celsius for 2026 from Thursday onwards.
The mercury is expected to climb to 33, 34, and 35 degrees on consecutive days from Thursday. Conditions will be even hotter further inland, where parts of the Hunter could see the thermometer reach a blistering 40 degrees from Thursday through to Saturday.
This impending heat follows a notably cool start to the new year. Bureau of Meteorology observations confirm that the temperature in Newcastle did not pass 23 degrees during the first three days of 2026.
Weather Pattern Shift
Before the heat arrives, Newcastle can expect clouds and possible rain. However, these are predicted to clear from Wednesday, bringing clear skies just in time for the temperature spike.
A change in wind direction is also on the cards. Winds are likely to gradually turn from southerly to northerly around midweek as another high-pressure system moves into the Tasman Sea, drawing hotter air down over the region.
The Bureau of Meteorology has also issued a separate heatwave warning for southern and western parts of New South Wales this week. The good news for Hunter residents seeking relief is that the current forecast suggests the heat will begin to ease from next weekend and into the following week.
Authorities advise the community to stay updated with the latest warnings from the Bureau of Meteorology, prepare for both severe storm conditions and the subsequent high temperatures, and check on vulnerable neighbours as the weather extremes unfold.
