Australia is bracing for a potent weather system that will bring days of disruptive conditions, including heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and snow. The Bureau of Meteorology has issued widespread warnings, urging residents to prepare for potentially dangerous weather. From Central Australia to New South Wales (NSW), the storm is already causing significant impacts, with more extreme weather on the horizon.
The powerful system, which began delivering heavy rainfall across Central Australia, is now sweeping through the Northern Territory and into the eastern states. According to Jonathan How, senior meteorologist at the Bureau of Meteorology, the system has rapidly intensified, bringing a heightened risk of severe thunderstorms, hail, and damaging winds.
Impact on Eastern Australia: Rain, Storms, and Coastal Hazards
For much of the east coast, from southern Queensland to New South Wales, the system is set to cause widespread disruption. On Wednesday, intense rain and thunderstorms are expected to impact regions including Sydney and Canberra. According to How, these conditions will be exacerbated by the development of a low-pressure trough, combining with the rain band to create severe weather conditions.
For cities like Sydney and Canberra, the forecast includes wet, cold, and windy conditions, with snow expected to fall in alpine regions. As the low-pressure system moves further off the coast by Thursday night, more heavy rain is expected in the Illawarra and South Coast, bringing the risk of flooding.
The Bureau of Meteorology has warned that rain totals could reach up to 100mm in some coastal areas, while snow in the alpine resorts could accumulate up to 30cm. Dangerous surf and strong winds along the coast are also anticipated.
Western Australia Gets a Break: Calm Before the Storm
In contrast to the east, Western Australia is expected to experience a brief respite, with mostly sunny skies and mild temperatures throughout the week. Perth will see daytime highs between 18-21°C, providing a welcome break for residents. However, strong winds will continue along coastal regions in the Pilbara, Ningaloo, Gascoyne, and Esperance. Inland areas will remain dry, offering little relief to those expecting the worst in the east.
Despite the calmer conditions in the west, the rest of the country remains on high alert. Strong winds are forecast to affect coasts in South Australia, Queensland, and Tasmania, while livestock graziers in Tasmania, New South Wales, and South Australia have been advised to take precautions against the cold and wet conditions, which could pose risks to animals.
In the coming days, as the low-pressure system pushes offshore, conditions are expected to ease. However, warnings for hazardous surf, strong winds, and the potential for flooding are likely to continue into Friday. Communities across eastern and central Australia are urged to stay updated on the latest forecasts and warnings.
