WEATHER SITUATION

According to the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) a low pressure system is expected to deepen off the southern NSW coast this afternoon, deepen further and move north along central parts of the coast overnight tonight and on Friday morning before moving away to the east later Friday. Gale force winds are expected with this system, particularly near the coast, and localised heavy rain may cause flash flooding about the coast and eastern ranges. Damaging surf conditions are also expected.

Very heavy surf which may lead to localised damage and coastal erosion is forecast to develop for South Coast and Illawarra forecast districts Thursday evening, extending to the Sydney Metropolitan and Hunter forecast districts during Friday. Beach conditions in these areas could be dangerous and people should stay well away from the surf and surf exposed areas.

Thunderstorms and heavy rain may lead to localised flash flooding in the Illawarra and South Coast forecast districts this evening and early Friday, possibly extending to the Snowy Mountains and eastern parts of the Southern Tablelands forecast districts.

Damaging winds averaging 60 km/h with peak gusts of 100 km/h are forecast to develop for coastal parts of the Illawarra and South Coast forecast districts Thursday evening and overnight, extending to the Sydney Metropolitan and Hunter forecast districts during Friday morning.

Snow is likely on the ranges, especially on the Northern Tablelands.

SAFETY AND PREPAREDNESS INFORMATION

The NSW SES has volunteers on alert and well prepared to assist the community if required.

The adverse weather is likely to present a number of hazards with the public urged to take both preparatory action prior to the arrival of the bad weather as well as appropriate, safe actions once the bad weather hits.

Heavy rain and strong, possibly damaging winds are likely to affect parts of the Sydney Metropolitan area overnight and early Friday. This may cause some property damage and present hazards for motorists.

Unseasonable snow has been occurring in South Australia this morning as an upper cold pool moves over the State. This cold pool will cause snow to fall in NSW later today, particularly on the Northern Tablelands. In mountain areas where snow occurs, drive to the conditions and obey road closed signs. Check with the Roads and Maritime ‘Live Traffic’ http://livetraffic.rta.nsw.gov.au/desktop.html for the latest information on road closures due to snow and ice.

Heavy rain is likely to occur on the Illawarra and South Coast this afternoon and move north overnight to affect the Hunter and the Sydney areas. This rain may cause localised flash and riverine flooding, especially in the Illawarra. Check for road closures with Live Traffic at http://livetraffic.rta.nsw.gov.au/desktop.html and NEVER drive, ride or walk into floodwater.

Deliberate entry into floodwater is the leading killer in a flood. More information on being FloodSafe can be found on the NSW SES Flood Safe website at www.floodsafe.com.au

Damage may be caused to homes and businesses by strong winds gusting up to 100km/hr and heavy rain in affected areas. Prepare now by:

·          Cleaning gutters and downpipes

·          Trimming overhanging trees and branches

·          Securing or putting away loose items from yards and balconies.

·          Checking your roof is in good repair.

·          Making sure that your insurance is adequate and up to date.

Further information can be found on the NSW SES StormSafe site at www.stormsafe.com.au

If you require emergency help call the NSW SES on 132 500. If it is a life-threatening emergency, call 000 immediately