20 Oct 2021 | 06:31 AM UTC
Australia: Severe weather forecast in parts of eastern regions through Oct. 23 /update 1
Severe weather forecast in eastern Australia through Oct. 23. Transport and utility disruptions possible.
Event
Severe weather is forecast for eastern Australia through Oct. 23 as a low-pressure system transits the region. The affected area includes far northeastern New South Wales and eastern Queensland. The Australian Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for heavy rainfall, damaging winds, and large hailstones over parts of the Northern Rivers, Mid North Coast, and Northern Tablelands forecast districts in New South Wales and portions of the Central Coast and Whitsundays, Southeast Coast, Herbert and Lower Burdekin, Central Highlands and Coalfields, Capricornia, Wide Bay and Burnett, and Darling Downs and Granite Belt forecast districts in Queensland through at least Oct. 23. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of the relevant weather alerts over the coming days.
Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed or a lack of stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall.
Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation. Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at regional airports. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations if strong winds and large waves trigger hazardous sea conditions.
Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and employees' inability to reach work sites. Electricity and telecommunications service disruptions are possible where significant flooding, strong winds, or landslides impact utility networks.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Allow extra time for travel in the affected area and plan alternative routes if necessary. Do not drive on flooded roads.
