Millions warned to expect severe storms, damaging winds

Thursday, 11 December 2025 08:23

Residents across NSW should expect a soaking from today, with some wild weather thrown in.

Large parts of NSW are heading for a soaking from today, with residents warned of possible storms and damaging winds.

More than half of the state is expected to receive about 10mm to 30 mm of rain between now and Saturday, reports weather forecasting site Weatherzone.

Similar totals are forecast for southern inland Queensland, eastern Victoria and the ACT.

The Bureau of Meteorology warns showers and thunderstorms are forecast to increase today across central parts of the NSW coast and north-west. Peak rainfall totals of 30mm to 50mm per hour and localised 24-hour totals of 70mm to 120mm are possible.

The Hunter, Sydney, Illawarra regions and parts of the north-west are expected to receive the brunt of the downpour.

While the rain will bring welcome relief from the bushfire threat, authorities are warning of potential storm damage.

NSW SES Assistant Commissioner Nicole Hogan says there is a risk of fallen branches from trees weakened by fires.

"Trees that have been damaged by fire may be unstable and more likely to fall when it is windy and wet.

Motorists heading to Christmas holiday destinations are also being urged to take care on roads.

"Storms and localised heavy rain may also cause flash flooding due to increased runoff in locations that may not normally flood. If you come across a flooded road, turn around and find a safer route."

The wet conditions are being driven by two low-pressure systems over inland and coastal NSW fed by moisture-filled winds from the Tasman and Coral seas.

Conditions are expected to ease by late tomorrow, before another bout of thunderstorms is predicted for many areas over the weekend, shifting to the north on Monday.

To stay up to date with the latest warnings and information, download the Hazards Near Me app or visit the NSW SES website.

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