Early today, parts of Sydney and Wollongong were hit by intense rainfall, causing significant disruption. The severe weather front is expected to stretch from Moruya to Sydney, with the potential for damaging thunderstorms later in the day, according to Andrew Edmunds, the NSW SES Operational Media Manager.

“The Illawarra region has already experienced flash flooding, prompting two flood rescues this morning—one at Albion Park and another on Picton Road,” Edmunds reported to Today. He warned that the areas could face giant hail, destructive winds, and intense downpours as the day progresses.

Despite the challenging conditions, Edmunds assured that the State Emergency Service is well-equipped to handle the situation. “We have over 450 volunteers actively working in the field,” he noted. “Since the onset of this weather event, they’ve been addressing approximately 600 incidents.”

Residents are urged to remain vigilant as the weather system continues its path towards the mid-north coast and northern rivers, where further severe weather is anticipated.

“But the SES is well prepared. We’ve got more than 450 volunteers out in the field.

“They’ve been responding to around 600 incidents since this weather started,” Edmunds said.

Rockfishers are also being advised to avoid coastal platforms by the ocean and to find a safe spot that is sheltered from the dangerous surf conditions.