WEATHER SITUATION

According to the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) a low is expected to deepen off the NSW South Coast tomorrow (Thursday), then move north Thursday night and Friday morning before moving away to the east later Friday.

Early Thursday localised heavy rain, gale force winds and large seas/swell are expected to increase off the South Coast forecast district with areas around Nowra and the Shoalhaven expected to receive the most significant rainfall.

Also early Thursday, localised heavy rain and gale force winds are expected to develop for eastern parts of Snowy Mountains forecast district, with the possibility of these conditions extending into parts of the Illawarra and eastern parts of the Southern Tablelands forecast districts later on Thursday.

Gale force winds near the coast and large seas/swells will extend north through the Illawarra, Metropolitan and Hunter forecast districts from early Friday, with possible localised heavy rain near the coastal fringe.

An upper cold pool will result in unseasonable snowfalls about the ranges from the Victorian to the Queensland border, possibly down to as low as 900-1000 metres.

There is a chance of isolated thunderstorms in most districts tomorrow, with the possibility of small hail in the west.

Falls of 100-150mm may be possible in localised areas, and winds along the coastal fringe may reach 90-100km/hr at times. Surf off the South Coast and Illawarra may reach 5-6 metres with dangerous surf conditions.

An easing trend in the rain and wind is expected later Friday.

SAFETY AND PREPAREDNESS

The 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.

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 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 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.