Overview
We're two weeks into summer (and one week from Christmas), but Sydney is preparing itself for another hefty downfall. And maybe even some flooding.
According to the Bureau of Meteorology, the city — and much of the state — is expected to be hit with a heap of rain this Wednesday, December 16, and there's a chance of some thunderstorms, too.
The BOM has just released a severe thunderstorm warning for heavy rainfall across large swathes of NSW, and says residents of Lismore, Newcastle, Gosford, Sydney, Wollongong, Armidale, Orange, Canberra, Goulburn, Tamworth, Moree, Dubbo and Wagga Wagga should prepare for some potential flash flooding "over the next several hours".
The warning was released at 1.44pm, with an update scheduled for 4.45pm.
If you've been watching the weather up north, the rain shouldn't come as a surprise. Southeast Queensland and northeast NSW have been battered by heavy rain, gale-force winds and high tides over the past few days, which has led to towns being evacuated and the major coastal erosions of some Byron Bay beaches.
As usual with flooding, the state's State Emergency Service recommends you steer clear of creeks and storm drains; don't walk, drive or ride your bike through flood water; and stay indoors and away from windows.
If you need to head out, don't forget to pack your umbrellas and raincoats — and keep an eye on the warnings.
To keep an eye on Sydney's weather forecasts and warnings, head to the Bureau of Meteorology website.