Locations Affected: Australia
Parts of southern Australia have witnessed destructive winds and flooding since 01 September, resulting in extensive damage, power outages, and travel disruptions. Wind gusts of up to 110 km/hr were reported in Sydney and parts of New South Wales. As of 01 September, one person has died due to the felling of a tree by winds.
Reason for the severe weather
The severe weather is the result of a series of cold fronts moving across the region and follows an unseasonably warm winter temperatures in Sydney. The extreme weather in Australia is also exacerbated by climate change that has caused increase in temperatures.
Impact of the extreme weather and warnings issued
- Warnings for damaging winds have been issued for parts of New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania. Flood warnings have also been issued for Tasmania, with a flood watch for the west, north, northwest, and parts of the northeast rivers. Additionally, a total fire ban has been issued for Illawarra and greater Sydney on 02 September due to an elevated fire risk.
- The severe weather has damaged over 600 homes and caused 35,000 homes to be without power in Victoria. Victorian residents have been urged to secure loose outdoor furniture and to avoid outdoor activities, especially swimming or rock fishing along the coastline and Port Phillip Bay.
- The State Emergency Service (SES) in Tasmania has urged communities in Meadowbank, Glenora, Bushy Park, Gretna, and Macquarie Plains to prepare for flooding that may isolate the area for several days. An evacuation centre has been in New Norfolk. About 30,000 customers faced power cuts in Tasmania due to winds damaging power lines.
- High winds have led to the cancellation of at least 90 domestic flights scheduled to depart from Sydney Airport, eight departing flights and ten arrivals at Melbourne Airport, and five departures and six arrivals at Brisbane Airport on 02 September.
- Metro services in Melbourne experienced delays and cancellations due to debris on tracks and damage to overhead lines. Various roads across Victoria have been closed due to debris and hazardous driving conditions, including sections of the Princes Highway and the Great Ocean Road.
Weather forecast and recommendations
The Bureau of Meteorology forecasts the cold front to start clearing from late Monday (02 September) as a high-pressure system moves in behind it by 03 September. Wind gusts of up to 120 km/hr are expected until the afternoon of 02 September and later ease on 03 September. Operations are ongoing to clear roads of debris and to restore electricity. The severe weather is expected to cause further damage to infrastructure and power lines. Transport disruptions and restrictions can be expected. Travelers are advised to avoid unnecessary travel and check flight schedules and road conditions. Organizations can stay updated on the weather warnings issued through the Bureau of Meteorology’s website: http://www.bom.gov.au/?ref=logo
