01 Jul 2022 | 11:43 AM UTC
Australia: Adverse weather forecast across parts of central New South Wales coast through at least July 5
Heavy rainfall forecast across parts of central NSW coast, Australia, through at least July 5. Flooding and associated disruptions possible.
Event
Heavy rainfall is forecast across parts of the central New South Wales coast, including Metropolitan Sydney, through at least July 5. As of July 1, the Australian Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued a severe weather warning for heavy rainfall across parts of Metropolitan, Illawarra, and parts of Central Tablelands forecast districts. Locations affected by the warnings include Sydney, Penrith, Parramatta, Wollongong, Nowra, Bowral, Campbelltown, Port Kembla, Albion Park, Kiama, Huskisson, and Springwood.
A deepening surface trough will remain stationary offshore July 2-3, bringing widespread rainfall along parts of the eastern coast of NSW. An East Coast Low may develop within the weather system, causing showers to linger over the area July 4-5. Six-hourly rainfall totals of 8-15 cm (3-6 inches) are forecast across the affected area July 2-3, and the heavy rainfall may result in flash flooding across parts of Illawarra and Sydney Metropolitan districts. Depending on the development of the East Coast Low, damaging wind gusts are possible in the area from late July 3.
A flood watch is in place for the New South Wales Coastal River Catchments from the Hunter to the South Coast. Strong wind warnings have been issued for Sydney Enclosed Waters, Sydney Coast, Illawarra Coast, and Batemans Coast July 2 and a hazardous surf warning has been issued for the Hunter and Sydney coasts July 1-2.
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 airports in the region. 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.
