Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued for Illawarra Region
The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a severe thunderstorm warning for the greater Wollongong area and surrounding Illawarra region, alerting residents to potentially dangerous weather conditions. A trough is currently triggering severe thunderstorms, creating a moist and unstable environment across the area.
Storm Details and Expected Impacts
Supercell thunderstorms have been detected to the north-east of the ACT, with the bureau warning these storms are likely to produce heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding. Large hailstones and damaging winds are also expected as part of this severe weather system.
The storms were initially detected near the north-west parts of the Wollondilly Shire, Nowra, and the Morton National Park. According to meteorological tracking, these storms are moving in a north to northeast direction and are forecast to affect Albion Park by approximately 6.35pm.
Rainfall Measurements and Regional Warnings
Significant rainfall has already been recorded in the region, with Yalwal, west of Nowra, recording 75mm of rain in just one hour at 5.26pm. Meanwhile, Big Hill, located to the northeast of Goulburn, recorded 38.8mm of rain in the two hours leading up to 4.17pm.
A more general severe thunderstorm warning remains current for multiple districts including the Illawarra, Central Tablelands, Southern Tablelands and parts of the Hunter, South Coast, South West Slopes, Snowy Mountains and Central West Slopes and Plains areas.
State Emergency Service Safety Advice
The State Emergency Service has issued important safety recommendations for residents in affected areas:
- Park your vehicle under secure cover away from trees, powerlines and drainage systems
- Secure or put away any loose items around your house, yard and balcony areas
- Maintain at least 8 metres distance from fallen power lines or objects that may be energised, such as fences
- Report fallen power lines to your relevant energy provider as indicated on your power bill
- Avoid creeks and storm drains during the severe weather period
- Do not walk, ride bicycles or drive through flood waters under any circumstances
- If trapped by flash flooding, seek refuge in the highest available location and call 000 if rescue is required
- Remain indoors away from windows, keeping children and pets safely inside
For emergency assistance during flood and storm events, residents should contact the SES on 132 500. The State Emergency Service also recommends staying updated through the Hazards Near Me NSW application or the ACT ESA website. Warnings continue to be available through television and radio broadcasts, or by calling 1300 659 210 for the latest information.
Residents across the Illawarra region are urged to monitor conditions closely and follow all safety advice as this severe weather system moves through the area.
