Severe thunderstorms across Canberra prompted over 280 requests for assistance to the ACT State Emergency Service, while in NSW, storms tragically claimed the life of a man in Cowra.
The majority of these requests involved fallen trees blocking roads, leaking roofs, and localised flooding. Teams from ACTSES, ACT Rural Fire Service, ACT Fire & Rescue, TCCS and NSW SES have completed more than half of these jobs so far.
Further rainfall and high winds have been forecast for the ACT today. High soil moisture may cause more downed trees, even after the storm has passed. With many fallen trees and branches across the territory already, we ask the community to be cautious around large trees.
The ACT SES is reminding the community to take care on ACT roads due to fallen trees, branches, and debris from the storm.
Meanwhile, in NSW, severe weather has caused widespread devastation, including the tragic death of an elderly man who was killed after a fallen tree landed on his car in Cowra.
NSW SES crews responded to more than 2250 calls and attended over 1800 incidents within 24 hours, primarily for fallen trees and property damage. The storm left over 120,000 customers without power, with Newcastle bearing the brunt of the blackouts, affecting more than 60,000 customers. Sydney and the Central Coast were also heavily impacted, with 31,000 and 4000 customers left without electricity, respectively.
Four people were injured in Wagga Wagga when high winds tore off the roofs of their demountable huts. At Carlingford in Sydney’s northwest, 14 people required alternative accommodation after losing their roof to the storm. A fallen tree has also caused significant disruption at Royal North Shore Hospital.
For parts of NSW, the Bureau of Meteorology has warned that severe thunderstorms, combined with a low-pressure weather system, are expected to bring up to 80mm of rain through Saturday, with some areas predicted to receive up to 100mm on Friday. A minor flood watch has been issued for multiple river catchments, including the Orara, Coffs Coast, Bellinger and Kalang rivers, among others.
Residents are reminded to contact the ACT SES for emergency assistance in storms and floods by calling 132 500. For life-threatening emergencies, always call 000.
Stay safe and vigilant during extreme weather events, and take precautions to protect your home and family from storm damage.
