Australia: Adverse weather forecast across southeastern New South Wales through at least early June 7

Severe weather is forecast to affect parts of the Illawarra, South Coast, Southern Tablelands, and Central Tablelands forecast districts in southeastern New South Wales, through at least early June 7. As of early June 6, the Australian Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued a severe weather warning for heavy rainfall for Illawarra and parts of South Coast, Central Tablelands, and Southern Tablelands forecast districts, including Wollongong, Nowra, Bowral, Ulladulla, Taralga, and Nerriga. Localized six-hourly rainfall totals of 5-9 cm (2-3.5 inches) are possible. Heavy rainfall may result in flash flooding in the affected area. Flood watches are in place for parts of the Central Coast, Sydney Metropolitan Area, Illawarra, and South Coast, while minor flood warnings have been issued for the Cooks and Hastings rivers and St Georges Basin. 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.