Australia: Adverse weather forecast to continue across parts of New South Wales and far southwestern Queensland through at least Feb. 6

Severe weather is forecast to continue over parts of New South Wales and far southwestern Queensland through at least Feb. 6. The remnants of Tropical Cyclone Kirrily are currently located over far southwestern Queensland as of the afternoon of Feb. 5 and is forecast to track southeastwards into the Upper Western district of New South Wales late Feb. 5 before weakening over central parts of New South Wales early Feb. 6. The severe weather associated with Kirrily is likely to ease the afternoon of Feb. 6.

As of the afternoon of Feb. 5, the Australian Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued a severe weather warning for heavy and locally intense rainfall and damaging winds across parts of Southern Tablelands, South West Slopes, Central Tablelands, Central West Slopes and Plains, Riverina, Lower Western, and Upper Western forecast districts in NSW, Australian Capital Territory, and parts of Channel Country and Maranoa and Warrego forecast districts in Queensland.

Six-hourly rainfall totals of 8-12 cm (3-5 inches) are forecast in the affected area, with localized heavier amounts and embedded thunderstorms possible. Winds gusting up to 70 kph (43 mph) are possible across northern parts of the warning area. Flood watches and warnings are in place for several river catchments across the affected area. Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming hours.

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 downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where heavy rain has saturated the soil.

Floodwaters and debris flows may render further bridges or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas with heavy rainfall and potential track inundation. Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at regional airports.

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.