Severe storms cause destruction across Sydney and central NSW, with flooding risks rising

A deadly storm that struck New South Wales on 15 January 2025 has left one person dead, over 120,000 without power, and significant damage across the region. The intense weather, marked by heavy rain, winds, and lightning, tore through Sydney and the surrounding areas, with the worst effects felt in central and southeastern parts of the state.

The victim, an elderly driver in Cowra, tragically died when a tree fell onto his vehicle as the storm roared through central NSW. In Wagga Wagga, four others were injured when strong winds ripped off the roofs of several demountable huts, further highlighting the severe impact of the storm.

The New South Wales State Emergency Service (SES) reported an overwhelming 2,250 calls for assistance, responding to over 1,800 incidents within 24 hours, primarily caused by fallen trees and property damage. As of the latest updates, more than 120,000 customers were left without power, and 300 electrical hazards were causing widespread concern.

Newcastle bore the brunt of the blackouts, with more than 60,000 homes affected, followed by 31,000 in Sydney and 4,000 on the Central Coast. Royal North Shore Hospital also experienced disruptions from a fallen tree, while residents in Carlingford, in Sydney’s northwest, had to seek alternative accommodation after the storm tore off their roofs, leaving 14 people displaced.

The Bureau of Meteorology issued a warning that severe thunderstorms are expected to continue, with the system set to combine with a low-pressure front, bringing up to 80mm of rain until Saturday. Friday is predicted to bring the heaviest rainfall, with some areas seeing up to 100mm of rain. The bureau has also issued a minor flood watch for several river catchments, including Orara, Coffs Coast, Bellinger, and Kalang rivers, as well as the Paterson and Williams rivers.

As the storm continues to wreak havoc, the state’s emergency teams are on high alert, with the full extent of the damage still being assessed. Local authorities have urged residents to remain cautious and avoid unnecessary travel as the worst of the weather is expected to strike on Friday.