Australia: Adverse weather forecast across much of the country through at least Oct. 7

Event

Heavy rainfall is forecast across most of Australia through at least Oct. 7 due to multiple weather systems. The heaviest rainfall is likely over New South Wales, Victoria, and Western Australia. As of Sept. 27, the Australian Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued the following severe weather warnings:

• Heavy rainfall, large hailstones, and damaging winds: Wide Bay and Burnett, Darling Downs and Granite Belt, Central Highlands and Coalfields, Capricornia, Maranoa and Warrego, and Southeast Coast forecast districts in Queensland

• Heavy rainfall, giant hailstones, and damaging winds: Northern Rivers, Mid North Coast, and Northern Tablelands forecast districts in New South Wales

Due to the threat of flooding, the BOM has issued various flood warnings across New South Wales, including minor to major flood warnings for the Bogan, Culgoa, Birrie, Bokhara, Narran, Lachlan, Macquarie, and Namoi rivers. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of 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 additional flight delays and cancellations at airports in the region, including but not limited to Sydney Kingsford Smith International Airport (SYD).

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.

Resources

Australian Bureau of Meteorology
New South Wales State Emergency Service