A severe weather alert has been issued by the Bureau of Meteorology just after lunchtime on Wednesday with thunderstorms set to lash parts of the Illawarra and Nowra.
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"An upper trough traversing across the eastern part of New South Wales is combining with a very moist and unstable air mass to enhance the risk of severe thunderstorms," the Bureau stated.
It's likely to produce large hailstones and damaging winds in the warning area over the next several hours, they said, and could affect Wollongong, Nowra, Bowral, Campbelltown, Penrith and Parramatta.
Around 1.35pm, the storm cell was detected by the BOM near Camden and Picton with its movement heading east.
It is forecast to affect Campbelltown, Oran Park and Helensburgh by 2:05 pm and Minto, the Royal National Park and Waterfall by 2:35 pm.
Storms have been lashing the Illawarra for several days, with families staying at a Kiama caravan park up to their knees in water on Christmas Day.
The State Emergency Service advises that people should:
- * Move your car under cover or away from trees.
- * Secure or put away loose items around your house, yard and balcony.
- * Keep at least 8 metres away from fallen power lines or objects that may be energised, such as fences.
- * Report fallen power lines to either Ausgrid (131 388), Endeavour Energy (131 003), Essential Energy (132 080) or Evoenergy (131 093) as shown on your power bill.
- * Unplug computers and appliances.* Avoid using the phone during the storm.
- * Stay indoors away from windows, and keep children and pets indoors as well.
- * For emergency help in floods and storms, ring the SES (NSW and ACT) on 132 500.
Desiree Savage
At the helm of Australia's premier publication for people aged over 55, covering hard hitting issues, travel, lifestyle and entertainment. Got a hot tip? Email me - edit@TheSenior.com.au
At the helm of Australia's premier publication for people aged over 55, covering hard hitting issues, travel, lifestyle and entertainment. Got a hot tip? Email me - edit@TheSenior.com.au
