Community & Business
11 December, 2025
SES urges NSW communities to be alert
Severe thunderstorms are possible across much of the state this week as the NSW State Emergency Service (SES) urges residents to monitor conditions and be prepared.
The Bureau of Meteorology advises that severe thunderstorms are expected over the central and northern slopes and ranges and adjacent coast from this afternoon and evening, bringing damaging wind gusts, large hail and localised heavy rainfall.
Showers and thunderstorms are forecast to increase across central parts of the coast and northwest on Thursday, with peak rainfall totals of 30-50mm per hour and localised 24-hour totals of 70-120mm possible. The focus areas for the rainfall are the Hunter, Sydney, Illawarra and parts of the northwest.
NSW SES Assistant Commissioner Nicole Hogan said while it is hoped the rain may bring some relief to bushfire conditions, people should be aware of the hazards these thunderstorms can bring.
"There's a risk of fallen trees particularly after bushfires in the Northern region, so we are urging people to monitor conditions, be alert and stay away from overhanging branches,” Assistant Commissioner Hogan said.
“Trees that have been damaged by fire may be unstable and more likely to fall when it is windy and wet.
“Storms and localised heavy rain may also cause flash flooding due to increased runoff in locations that may not normally flood. If you come across a flooded road, turn around and find a safer route.”
Assistant Commissioner Hogan said volunteers are prepared to respond to an increase in calls for assistance but urged the community to prepare their homes and families.
“Take those simple steps now to stay safe, including securing loose items around your backyard, trimming trees and branches and parking your car away from trees and powerlines.”
Conditions are expected to ease late Friday, before another bout of thunderstorms is predicted for many areas over the weekend, shifting to the north on Monday.
Assistant Commissioner Hogan also urged holidaymakers to be vigilant.
“If you’re hitting the road this festive season, ensure you have the Hazards Near Me app downloaded and set up a watch zone for the area you are travelling to,” she said.
“Before you leave, plan your travel via the live traffic website so you are across any road closures or hazards.”
To stay up to date with the latest warnings and information, download the Hazards Near Me app or visit the NSW SES website.
If you require assistance from the NSW SES call 132 500. If it’s a life-threatening emergency, call Triple Zero (000).
