Severe thunderstorms before winter chill hits NSW

Severe thunderstorms are expected to hit before winter winds lash the state.

New South Wales will feel the extent of the seasons with thunderstorms thrashing northern parts of the state before icy winds bring a cold snap.

The current warning is for heavy rain for areas on the South Coast, like Bega, Merimbula and Eden, while there are concerns about thunderstorms that will hit Sydney, the Central Coast and Northern Rivers area later this afternoon.

BoM Forecaster David Wilke said it is strange to have thunderstorms at this time of year.

“There is a low-pressure system over the eastern parts of the state. It is causing widespread showers and storms with the most severe weather impacting the north of the state,” he said.

“It is unusual to have them at this time of year. Thunderstorms are typically a summer thing. The severe weather warning is issued when there is heavy rain, damaging gusts of wind or large hail forecast.”

The storms and showers will make way for icy winds, which are expected to roll through on Friday.

“There is a smaller chance of showers tomorrow, this eases again on Thursday. From Friday, a significant change is coming. Temperatures are expected to drop on Friday and Saturday, to 21C and 19C in Sydney, the morning temperatures will get as low as 9C and 8C,” Mr Wilke said.

“It will feel like winter.”

Read our morning blog below. 

⚠️A severe weather warning is current for Heavy Rain 🌧️ with #storms ⚡ developing over the southeast of #NSW today. Locations which may be affected include Bega, Merimbula, Eden and Bombala.

Keep an eye on the radar and check for updates at https://t.co/CNYYBRu2lv pic.twitter.com/UoPdPAx3t1

— Bureau of Meteorology, New South Wales (@BOM_NSW) May 11, 2021

Originally published as Severe thunderstorms before winter chill hits NSW