NSW emergency services on alert for severe storms and flash flooding

The New South Wales State Emergency Service (SES) has placed crews on standby as severe thunderstorms and heavy rainfall threaten multiple regions across the state over the long weekend.

The Bureau of Meteorology predicts a cold front will bring widespread thunderstorms to the South Coast, Illawarra, Sydney, Central West, and Riverina through Sunday, October 4. Some areas could experience up to 100mm of rainfall, along with damaging winds and large hail.

NSW SES Acting Assistant Commissioner Brigid Rice identified flash flooding as the primary concern, noting that conditions can change rapidly and making roads dangerous within minutes. Residents in Greater Sydney, the North Coast, and southern NSW are urged to secure loose outdoor items, clean gutters, and avoid driving through floodwaters.