Millions at Risk of Severe Weather on Australia's East Coast
Millions of Australians along the east coast are preparing for potentially severe storms and heavy rainfall this weekend following an intense start to the storm season.
Storm Threats in Sydney and Surrounding Regions
Late thunderstorms and strong winds are expected in Sydney on both Friday and Saturday evenings, despite warm daytime temperatures.
Weather Outlook from Bureau of Meteorology
Bureau of Meteorology forecaster Jonathon Howe outlined that southeastern Australia faces several “unsettled days” due to an advancing cold front on Friday and Saturday.
“Today (Friday) we are looking at the possibility of thunderstorms all the way from southern Victoria across to South Australia and up into northern parts of NSW,”
He added that northern Victoria and northwestern New South Wales should prepare for damaging wind gusts on Friday afternoon.
Thunderstorms could also affect Melbourne, Adelaide, Canberra, and Sydney.
Severe Storm Risks Across Broader Areas
“Severe thunderstorms are possible through the day for the northwestern slopes of NSW, into southern inland Queensland and a large swath across Central Australia,”
said Mr. Howe, warning of potentially damaging wind gusts with Saturday thunderstorms in these regions.
Heavy rain, strong winds, and large hail are expected from Wollongong to Sydney, Newcastle, the Hunter Region, Mid North Coast, and extending into the interior parts of Queensland.
Summary
Australians along the east coast should prepare for a weekend of severe storms, heavy rainfall, and damaging winds brought by a significant cold front moving through southeastern states.