Severe storms leave thousands of Australians without power, prompting flood warnings in New South Wales

Severe storms leave thousands of Australians without power, prompting flood warnings in New South Wales

SYDNEY – 18 JAN - Severe storms in New South Wales, Australia, have left tens of thousands of residents without power as damaging winds and heavy rainfall caused widespread disruptions.

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SYDNEY – 18 JAN - Severe storms in New South Wales, Australia, have left tens of thousands of residents without power as damaging winds and heavy rainfall caused widespread disruptions. Power outages affected approximately 28,000 people in Sydney and another 15,000 in Newcastle and the Hunter region, according to Ausgrid. Emergency services responded to over 2,800 calls, mostly for fallen trees and wind-damaged properties, while flood and weather warnings remain in effect across the state. Federal emergency management minister Jenny McAllister urged residents to stay updated and follow safety advisories.

The storms follow earlier weather events this week that left 200,000 people in New South Wales without power. Climate experts warn that climate change is intensifying short-term heavy rainfall, increasing the risk of severe weather, including storms, coastal flooding, and bushfires. Australia’s weather bureau noted winds of up to 100 km/h in alpine areas, while the nation continues to brace for more extreme climate conditions.

Large waves battered the coast of Clovelly in Sydney’s eastern suburbs on January 18, 2025, prompting warnings for residents in New South Wales to avoid the water and stay off the rocks as severe storms swept through the region. — Picture from X/StormWatch

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