Australians have been urgently warned to prepare for severe weather conditions today, with forecasts predicting heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and potential flash flooding set to impact extensive regions across the country. Severe weather warnings were officially issued early on Tuesday morning for parts of New South Wales and Victoria, highlighting the imminent threat.
Dangerous Conditions in New South Wales
The Bureau of Meteorology has forecast heavy to locally intense rainfall in the northwest of New South Wales, which could lead to dangerous and life-threatening flash flooding alongside isolated thunderstorms. While the exact location of the heaviest falls and the future movement of the low-pressure system remain uncertain, areas such as Tibooburra, Broken Hill, Wilcannia, White Cliffs, Wanaaring, and Menindee may be significantly affected.
Over a 24-hour period, rainfall totals between 50 and 90 millimetres are likely, with isolated amounts potentially reaching up to 130 millimetres. Periods of heavy rainfall are expected to persist in western New South Wales until the middle of the week, exacerbating flood risks.
Impact on Victoria and Melbourne
Communities in northern and central parts of Victoria, including Melbourne, are also forecast to experience rainfall on Tuesday morning, with embedded thunderstorms developing into the afternoon. The Bureau of Meteorology has warned that six-hourly rainfall totals between 40 to 70 millimetres are possible, with conditions anticipated to ease by Wednesday morning. Residents in these areas should remain vigilant for sudden weather changes.
Meteorologist Insights and Extended Forecast
Meteorologist Sarah Scully explained that the weather system is driven by a low-pressure system bringing tropical moisture from central Australia. She cautioned that the wet weather could continue until the end of the week, with heavy rainfall and storms expected to move through eastern parts of Victoria and potentially southeastern New South Wales by Wednesday.
Ms Scully noted that the low-pressure system is likely to linger over central regions until potentially Friday, with heavy rainfall possible each day this week. She emphasised that much of mainland Australia could experience flooding, as flood watches have been issued from the tropical north down into South Australia and through northwestern parts of New South Wales.
Additionally, there are already numerous flood warnings across Queensland due to recent rainfall, including a major flood warning for the Flinders and Cape rivers. Ms Scully highlighted that the grounds are already saturated and catchments swollen, meaning they will respond rapidly to any further rainfall, increasing the risk of flash flooding.
Safety Precautions and Emergency Advice
Local authorities are strongly advising people to avoid driving, riding, or walking through flood water and to keep clear of creeks and storm drains. If trapped by flash flooding, individuals should seek refuge in the highest available place and call 000 immediately if rescue is needed. These precautions are crucial to ensure safety during this severe weather event.
