BREAKING: A significant thunderstorm outbreak is currently advancing toward southeast Australia, with a looming risk of tornadoes in New South Wales (NSW). Meteorologists are on high alert as extreme weather conditions threaten the already sweltering region, raising concerns for public safety.
Meteorologist Tamsin Green reported, “We’re already seeing quite a few storms fire up,” during a live broadcast on Sky News Weather. She emphasized the potential for locally destructive winds and a small chance of tornado formation in south-west NSW. As the storms develop, communities should brace for large hail exceeding 2 centimeters, heavy rainfall, and damaging winds across both NSW and Victoria.
The Australian Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) confirms that these severe storms will not only impact NSW but will also sweep through South Australia, Tasmania, and parts of Queensland. BOM Senior Meteorologist Jonathan How stated, “Storms are possible in Adelaide, Melbourne, Canberra, and also Sydney later in the day.”
The storm system is expected to initiate in South Australia and western Victoria this morning, progressing to encompass much of NSW and the remainder of Victoria by later today. The forecast includes pockets of heavy to intense rainfall, which could lead to flash flooding and destructive winds, posing a threat to power lines and property.
As severe storms approach, eastern Australia continues to grapple with extreme heatwave conditions. Forecasts predict temperatures in Sydney will reach a high of 34 degrees Celsius, while western Sydney could see temperatures soar into the low 40s. Meanwhile, Brisbane is expected to experience highs around 33 degrees Celsius, with western areas facing similar sweltering conditions.
The BOM has issued heatwave warnings across NSW, Queensland, and Western Australia, as the region faces an extreme fire danger rating. Fire alerts are in effect for areas including Greater Hunter, Central Ranges, and North Western regions of NSW. In Victoria, the Mallee region is under an extreme fire danger warning, with similar alerts issued for South Australia’s Mid North and Riverland fire weather districts.
Residents are urged to stay informed and take precautions as the situation develops. The potential for severe weather and fire danger underlines the urgent need for vigilance among communities across southeast Australia. Stay tuned for further updates as this situation unfolds.
