Severe thunderstorms across Canberra prompted over 200 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.
ACT SES crews, including two teams from the Rivers Unit, worked tirelessly into the night to provide emergency assistance to affected residents. The response was bolstered by support from ACT Fire and Rescue, the ACT Rural Fire Service, and the NSW SES Queanbeyan Unit.
Despite the significant progress made overnight, many requests for assistance remain outstanding. ACT SES crews will continue their efforts today to address the backlog and assist the community.
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.
