Supercell thunderstorm predictions for the commute home
Current conditions in the atmosphere are conducive to severe thunderstorms happening across the Sydney basin according to The Bureau of Meteorology. Expect heavy rainfall, damaging winds and the chance of hail.
Current conditions in the atmosphere are conducive to severe thunderstorms happening across the Sydney basin later today according to The Bureau of Meteorology.
A severe thunderstorm warning is current for a broad swath of NSW and will be constantly updated over the afternoon.
“We are already seeing thunderstorm activity in western NSW,” says meteorologist Gabrielle Woodhouse. “There is the chance of thunderstorms becoming severe across the Sydney basin, but it is dependant on the cloud cover. So over the next few hours if we see sunny breaks, we are more likely to see thunderstorm activity.”
Up to 20mm of rain is expected to pelt Sydney later today, which is no comparison to the monster storm Sydney experienced last month — the downpour was the largest November storm in 44 years.
Elements that make a thunderstorm severe are damaging wind gusts, hail larger than 2cm in diameter and heavy rainfall that can lead to flash flooding. These conditions can vary place to place.
“There is a chance the thunderstorms across the Sydney basin could become severe, the ingredients are there,” says Woodhouse.
“We are expecting broad shower activity for NSW later in the afternoon, but those heavy falls may be spotty.
“Thunderstorms are already active over the state’s west and are expected to become more widespread this afternoon and extend further east.
“We are closely monitoring the situation and will release a thunderstorm warning if necessary,” says Woodhouse.
The conditions will be similar tomorrow with thunderstorm activity predicted.
A Severe Weather Warning is current for the South Coast tomorrow.
SAFETY TIPS FOR COMMUTERS DURING HEAVY RAIN
● Be aware of road conditions in your area and plan your trip accordingly. Check livetraffic.com, bom.gov.au, and ses.nsw.gov.au for the latest information.
● Remember to give way at intersections where lights are out and proceed with extra caution.
● Leave greater breaking distances between you and the car in front because it takes longer to stop when its wet.
● Drivers and motorcycle riders should use their headlights in heavy rain to be seen by other road users.
● Motorists should never attempt to drive through floodwaters or cross flooded causeways.
● Pedestrians should wear bright or high-vis clothing and use crossings at controlled intersections.
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