Several Australian states are bracing themselves for some of the strongest winds experienced all spring as a unexpected weather system sweeps through the nation’s southern states. South Australia, Victoria and New South Wales are all set to face severe hits from strong winds, rain and thunderstorms from today.
Severe weather alerts have been issued by the weather bureau in all three states. Gusts of wind may be as high as 90 to 110 kilometres an hour in most areas, with some coastal locations experiencing even higher winds of up to 130 kilometres per hour. According to experts, these are unusual wind speeds that may result in severe damage.
A low-pressure system in association with a cold front has been pushing south-easterly through the region. It began impacting South Australia yesterday with gusty winds and is currently moving towards western Victoria. The system will impact eastern Victoria and NSW today.
Wednesday Morning Brings Strongest Winds
Meteorologist Angus Hines explained that Wednesday will be one of the windiest days, if not the windiest day, of the entire spring. The strongest winds will strike south-west Victoria on Wednesday morning.
“That is where we expect to see the potential for those gusts above 120 kilometres per hour, which is a rare thing to see winds of that velocity,” Hines said. Coastal districts between Cape Otway in Victoria and Robe in South Australia should bear the brunt of it with damaging wind gusts up to 120 to 130 kilometres per hour this morning.
The extreme weather will impact residents of the south-east of South Australia, northern Victoria, and regions in south-east and eastern NSW. These include the Blue Mountains and the Illawarra region. Residents of these areas must prepare for hazardous conditions.
Trees and Power Lines at Risk
Emergency responders are alerting residents to prepare for potential destruction to houses, vehicles and electricity wires. The winds are strong enough to bring down full trees, not merely limbs. Trees and branches falling have the potential to bring down power lines, leaving homes and businesses in darkness.
Residents are advised to tie down loose objects near their homes, park away from trees, and keep away from downed power lines if they encounter any. The threat of gusty winds and falling trees makes it hazardous to drive, particularly on rural roads that have tall trees lining them.
Rain and Storms Add To Problems
In addition to the hazardous winds, heavy rain and severe storms are expected in the northern regions of Tasmania. Up to 50 millimetres of rain could fall in some parts of the state. Heavy rain and strong winds combine to make the conditions more hazardous.
The rain would lead to flooding in isolated low-lying places, and wet roads would make driving hazardous if combined with the high winds. Travellers in areas impacted should limit their travel where possible.
Conditions Should Improve by Evening
The better news is that the bad weather is not due to stick around long. Conditions for the south-eastern region of the nation should begin to settle this evening as the weather front drifts offshore and away from the continent.
Still, people should be careful even after the wind subsides. Downed trees and wrecked power lines can be hazards for several days following the storm. Power outages could last for many days in some locations as repair crews attempt to repair the damage.
Anyone with damage to property or without power should call their local power company or emergency services for aid. Citizens need to check up on elderly neighbours or relatives to ensure they are well during and after the storm.
FAQs
- Which states have severe weather warnings?
South Australia, Victoria and New South Wales are all under severe weather warnings for hazardous winds and storms.
- How intense will the wind gusts be?
Most places will experience gusts ranging from 90 to 110 kilometres per hour, with coastal regions potentially reaching 120 to 130 kilometres per hour.
- At what time will the worst weather occur?
Wednesday morning will experience the worst winds, especially in south-west Victoria, before the situation eases by the evening.
- What sort of damage can people anticipate from these winds?
The winds are strong enough to topple entire trees, damage property, bring down power lines and cause power outages across affected areas.
- Is Tasmania also affected by this weather system?
Yes, the northern parts of Tasmania are forecast to receive severe storms and heavy rain with up to 50 millimetres of rainfall expected.
_______
For more Australian news and updates, explore Inspirepreneur Magazine.
