‘Prepare for all weather types’: NSW storm season forecast revealed

Experts have warned NSW residents to be prepared for “all weather conditions” as the state is at increased risk of severe storms and increased temperatures heading into storm season. Bureau of Meteorology hazard preparedness and response manager Steve Bernasconi said above average rainfall and temperatures are anticipated going into storm season, which typically runs between September and April. “While the overall flood risk has been assessed as near average, severe storms can bring significant rainfall in short periods, so flood risks remain for some catchments,” Mr Bernasconi said. “We are also very likely to see above median maximum and minimum temperatures during spring.” Mr Bernasconi said there is a chance of unusually high rainfall for parts of northern NSW going into Spring, with temperatures set to be “similar to winter”. August was the warmest winter on record for NSW, while the entire country is having one of the warmest winters on record this year. “The forecast for Spring is for warmer daytime and warmer night-time temperatures on average,” Mr Bernasconi said. The warmer weather is set to be driven by warmer sea surface temperatures across the globe, with NSW on a “La Nina watch”. Mr Bernasconi warned the forecast could mean an increased chance of severe storms. “Severe storms can bring damaging winds, can bring heavy rain, intense rain, and that rain can lead to flash flooding. At its worst it can also lead to giant hail and lightning,” Mr Bernasconi said. “And given the conditions, lightning is also not one of our friends with regards to fire. “So with this outlook … we really need to prepare for all weather types, all weather conditions, including fire. Storms can happen at any time of the year and at any season.” The NSW SES has responded to more than 21,000 storm related incidents over the last year, with more than 3,000 incidents in the last two weeks alone after the state, along with much of the country, was battered by severe and damaging winds. NSW SES Acting Commissioner Debbie Platz said storms can happen “all year round”, urging residents to prepare their homes. “Have a home emergency plan and kit, clean your gutters, downpipes and drains, secure loose items around your backyard and balcony, and trim trees and branches that could fall onto your home,” Commissioner Platz said. “Make sure that everybody who resides in your house knows what that plan is and what their role is, so that when a storm does hit, they can actively take part in making sure the family is safe.” Commissioner Platz also urged people to check in on neighbours who may not be able to access internet or apps. “Some of our neighbours are unable to make sure that they can keep themselves safe, so I’m encouraging everyone in the community to make sure you check on them and help them in their times of emergencies as well,” she said. “Our SES volunteers are incredibly prepared for this storm season. They train every week to make sure that they can keep the community of NSW safe.” Commissioner Platz encouraged people to download the Hazards Near Me app to stay up to date on weather events, and put out a call for SES volunteers.