NSW residents and holidaymakers are bracing for a severe weather event that could bring heavy rainfall, damaging winds, and potential flash floods. The Bureau of Meteorology has issued warnings, urging people to leave campgrounds and avoid areas near water bodies as water levels can rise rapidly and cut off road access. The state's South Coast is expected to experience significant rainfall, with up to 80mm of rain falling in just six hours. Sydney will also see a wet weekend, with up to 100mm of rain forecast on Saturday and Sunday, and potential thunderstorms. The severe weather follows flash flooding in Victoria, which caused vehicles to be washed away and campgrounds to be flooded. Volunteer rescuers are on standby to respond quickly. The NSW SES chief superintendent, Dallas Burnes, has warned campers to be cautious, especially near creeks, rivers, and lakes, as heavy rain is expected to continue for several days in some areas. Some campgrounds have already been closed as a precaution. The low-pressure area developing off the coast is the cause of the severe weather warning, with damaging wind gusts of up to 100km/h and heavy, persistent rain expected. Dangerous surf conditions have prompted warnings from NSW Police, advising people to stay out of the water and avoid coastal activities. The hazardous surf is likely to spread north through the Illawarra and into Sydney on Saturday. Residents and visitors are urged to stay informed and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety during this extreme weather event.
