Torrential rain and strong winds are set to lash the Illawarra and South Coast on Monday, with 12-hour rainfall totals of more than 150 millimetres possible in some areas.
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The wet and wild start to the working week has prompted the Bureau of Meteorology to issue a severe weather warning for heavy rainfall and damaging winds.
The bureau said a weak low pressure system near the far northwest of NSW was tracking southeast and deepening on Sunday.
“It is expected to intensify during Monday as it reaches the south coast, before rapidly moving away towards New Zealand on Tuesday,” the bureau said.
Damaging winds averaging 60 to 70km/h, with peak gusts in excess of 90km/h are likely during Monday afternoon and evening for the South Coast north of Narooma, as well as the Illawarra coast and adjacent escarpment.
Winds are expected to ease early on Tuesday morning as the low moves further offshore.
Heavy rain, which may lead to flash flooding, is possible for the South Coast between Bega and Nowra on Monday.
Widespread totals of 50mm to 100mm are expected in this area on Monday, but some locations may receive 12-hour rainfall totals in excess of 150mm, the bureau said.
Rainfall is expected to ease during Monday evening.
In Wollongong, the bureau has forecast a cloudy Monday, with a very-high chance of rain and the chance of a thunderstorm during the afternoon and evening.
Between 35 and 50 millimetres is forecast for Wollongong, while Albion Park should see 40-50mm.
SAFETY ADVICE
The State Emergency Service advises that people should:
- Move vehicles under cover or away from trees.
- Secure or put away loose items around your house, yard and balcony.
- Keep at least 8 metres away from fallen power lines or objects that may be energised, such as fences.
- Report fallen power lines to either Ausgrid on 131 388, or Endeavour Energy on 131 003 or Essential Energy on 132 080, as shown on your power bill.
- Don't drive, ride or walk through floodwater.
- Keep clear of creeks and storm drains.
- If you are trapped by flash flooding, seek refuge in the highest available place and ring 000 if you need rescue.
- For emergency help in floods and storms, ring your local SES Unit on 132 500.
Andrew Pearson
Andrew grew up in the western Riverina town of Hay and has strong ties to the region. He is a former DA journo who has a passion for breaking news and has covered everything from council and politics to crime and court.
Andrew grew up in the western Riverina town of Hay and has strong ties to the region. He is a former DA journo who has a passion for breaking news and has covered everything from council and politics to crime and court.
