Severe weather warnings have been issued for various regions of New South Wales, including the South Coast, Illawarra, Southern Tablelands, and Snowy Mountains, as heavy rainfall, strong winds, and potential flash flooding were forecast. The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) issued warnings, prompting advisories for campers to consider evacuation, while emergency services responded to calls for assistance and several areas recorded significant rainfall totals.
Current Conditions and Warnings
The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) issued a severe weather warning for the New South Wales South Coast, which extended to include parts of the Illawarra, Southern Tablelands, and Snowy Mountains. The warning highlighted forecasts for heavy rainfall, damaging winds, and the potential for flash floods across these regions.
Rainfall and Wind Forecasts
For the NSW South Coast, six-hourly rainfall totals ranging from 50 to 80 millimeters were anticipated through Friday morning, with isolated falls projected to reach up to 120 millimeters. Sydney was expected to experience significant rainfall over the weekend, with predictions of up to 100 millimeters across Saturday and Sunday. Thunderstorms were also forecast to develop across the state.
Damaging winds averaging 60-70 kilometers per hour were projected for parts of the coastline, particularly near Jervis Bay, on Friday. The heaviest rainfall was forecast to shift north, impacting the Illawarra and Sydney on Saturday, and subsequently the Hunter region by Sunday.
Observed Impacts and Emergency Response
Preliminary rainfall data and local reports indicated substantial precipitation in several areas. Brogo Dam near Bega recorded 107 millimeters of rain between 9 AM Thursday and 8 AM Friday, while Merimbula Airport reported 110 millimeters, Brogo (near Bega) 115 millimeters, and Green Cape 77 millimeters in the 24 hours leading up to Friday morning. Residents in Eden, Kiah, and Nethercote also reported higher localized totals.
The town of Eden on the NSW far south coast experienced impacts. Campers at the Garden of Eden caravan park were evacuated from low-lying areas into cabins, leading to some tents and belongings being damaged. The park manager noted a rise in the nearby river, which affected the park's fence line.
The NSW State Emergency Service (SES) received 98 calls for assistance in the south-eastern zone during the 24-hour period leading up to Friday morning.
Safety Advisories
Authorities, including the NSW SES, advised campers and travelers in high-risk, low-lying coastal areas, such as caravan parks in the Illawarra, to pack up and relocate to avoid being isolated by rising waters. Residents were urged to exercise caution on roads, particularly in the Illawarra where conditions were expected to peak on Friday afternoon, due to the risk of flash flooding. Motorists were specifically advised to check weather conditions, ensure vehicle maintenance, defer travel if necessary, and avoid driving through floodwaters.