By Tuesday afternoon(July 1), emergency services had responded to more than 600 incidents across the state. Officials fear those numbers will climb dramatically as conditions worsen into the evening and Wednesday.
According to the Bureau of Meteorology, the system is producing short, violent bursts of rain, dropping up to 120 mm in just six hours in some regions. Coastal cities, including Newcastle, Wollongong and Sydney, are expected to bear the brunt, while the South Coast faces the risk of flash flooding, landslides, and coastal erosion.“Even if you see blue skies, the danger is not over,” Minister Dib warned.
More than 1,000 State Emergency Service (SES) volunteers have been deployed across New South Wales. Deputy Commissioner Debbie Platz called the weather “dynamic and unpredictable,” urging residents to act now.
“What we need is for you to be prepared,” she said. “Secure loose items, clean gutters, and don’t park under trees.”
The threat extends beyond streets and homes. Warragamba Dam, Sydney’s primary water reservoir, is sitting at 98 per cent capacity. WaterNSW has warned that any additional heavy rainfall could push it over, potentially spilling later this week. Smaller dams across the Sydney basin, including Nepean and Cataract, are already spilling.
Early flood watches are now in place for the Hawkesbury-Nepean, Georges, and Cooks River catchments. Authorities say even 10 centimetres of water can float a car.
Travel chaos takes hold
The wild weather is already disrupting travel. Qantas and Virgin Australia have cancelled flights in and out of Sydney and Newcastle, while Sydney Airport has issued weather alerts and is operating at reduced capacity.
Ferries are suspended, road commuters are facing widespread delays, and NSW Maritime has advised boaters to avoid all non-essential trips as gale-force winds churn up coastal waters.
“Whether you’re driving or on public transport, allow extra time and monitor conditions closely,” said Transport for NSW’s Howard Collins.
The Bureau of Meteorology says the worst weather is expected to persist through Wednesday, with impacts likely lingering into Thursday, particularly on the South Coast. Rainfall is expected to ease in Sydney by tonight, but damaging winds and localised flooding could continue.
“It’ll bring widespread impacts,” said BoM’s Steve Bernasconi. “The exact position and strength of the low will determine how severe this gets.”
Authorities are urging residents to prepare emergency kits, stay informed through official channels like the Hazards Near Me app, and act early if evacuation orders are issued.
“This is a dangerous and unpredictable storm system,” Platz said. “The best thing you can do is stay safe, stay dry, and stay aware.”
