Up to 300 millimetres of rain could fall in the Illawarra as damaging winds lash the region during the next two days.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The upgraded weather warning was issued on Thursday morning, with wild weather to impact areas from the Hunter to the Far South Coast from late morning on Friday, April 5 through until Saturday.
The heaviest rains will centre on the Illawarra Escarpment, with up to 300mm possible during the 24-hour period.
Flash flooding is possible in the Illawarra, Shoalhaven River and St Georges Basin, meteorologists warn.
Heavier falls are expected further south.
"Locally intense rainfall which may lead to dangerous and life-threatening flash flooding is possible between the Blue Mountains and Moruya from Friday evening into Saturday morning," the Bureau of Meteorology warning states.
Damaging easterly winds averaging 60 to 70km/h, with peak gusts of around 90 km/h, are possible from Friday evening along the coastal strip south of and including the Sydney metro area, as well as adjacent elevated areas, particularly above 500 meters.
Gale force wind and hazardous surf warnings have been issued for Friday for the Illawarra.
Dam impacts being monitored
Water levels in major dam catchments in the Illawarra and Warragamba Dam in Sydney are being closely monitored.
"WaterNSW is working with the Bureau of Meteorology to monitor a developing weather event expected to impact the state this week," Water NSW said.
"WaterNSW will continue to monitor the Bureau's forecast and issue advice concerning dam impacts as the event approaches."
Avon Dam (Illawarra's main water supply) is currently at 76 per cent. Supplementary water supplies are Nepean Dam (81 per cent) and Tallowa Dam (in the Shoalhaven) which is at 100 per cent.
Safety advice and what to do
Wollongong SES crews said rain predictions can change with little notice as the situation develops.
"The weather system carries a risk of flash-flooding and may also cause strong winds," crews said.
People are urged not to drive, ride or walk through flood water.
Shellharbour SES will have sandbags available from Friday morning. SES units in Wollongong, Dapto and Kiama are yet to provide an update on sandbags.
Severe weather is expected to ease by Saturday afternoon.
Stay up-to-date with the latest warnings on the Hazards Near Me App and through the SES.
For emergency help during floods and storms call the SES on 132 500, for life-threatening emergencies call triple-0.
Safety tips during wild weather
- Move vehicles under cover or away from trees.
- Secure or put away loose items around your house, yard and balcony.
- Keep at least eight metres away from fallen power lines or objects that may be energised, such as fences.
- Report fallen power lines to Endeavour Energy Emergency Assistance line on (131 003) or as shown on your power bill.
- Stay vigilant and monitor conditions
Nadine Morton
Nadine Morton covers emergency services and breaking news for the Illawarra Mercury. She takes pride in regional journalism which she believes is crucial to informing our towns and cities. Have a story? Email her at nadine.morton@austcommunitymedia.com.au
Nadine Morton covers emergency services and breaking news for the Illawarra Mercury. She takes pride in regional journalism which she believes is crucial to informing our towns and cities. Have a story? Email her at nadine.morton@austcommunitymedia.com.au
