Severe Weather Warning
for damaging winds and heavy rainfall
for people in the Metropolitan, Hunter and Illawarra forecast districts
Issued at 3:27 am EST on Friday 22 May 2015.
DAMAGING WINDS FOR CENTRAL PART OF COAST.
Weather Situation
A complex low pressure system is slowly deepening over the western Tasman Sea. A trough extending from the low to near the NSW south coast is expected to intensify and move to the north during the day, with gale-force southerly winds expected to develop along the coastal fringe between Ulladulla and Seal Rocks this morning. Thunderstorms and localised heavy rain are also possible, particularly in the Illawarra where steeper topography may assist in the development.
DAMAGING WINDS averaging 55 to 65 km/h with gusts of 90 km/h are forecast for the coastal fringe of the Illawarra, Metropolitan and Hunter (including the Central Coast) forecast districts today.
Dangerous surf conditions will also develop today, hazardous for coastal activities such as rock fishing, swimming and surfing.
Thunderstorms and heavy rain which may lead to FLASH FLOODING are possible for the Illawarra forecast district.
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 clear of fallen power lines.
- Don’t drive, ride or walk through flood water.
- 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.
The next warning will be issued by 11:00 am EST Friday.
This warning is also available through TV and Radio broadcasts; the Bureau’s website at www.bom.gov.au or call 1300 659 218.
The Bureau and State Emergency Service would appreciate this warning being broadcast regularly.
