Strong winds brought down this gum tree in Corrimal St, Wollongong, early Monday morning. Photo: NSW SES Wollongong.
Damaging winds in the Illawarra have brought down trees, damaged buildings and cut power to thousands of homes and businesses.
The NSW State Emergency Service (SES) has responded to more than 200 jobs in the South Coast and Illawarra regions since midnight on Sunday (25 June).
The callouts included trees falling on cars, buildings and roads, as well as damaged roofs and fallen power lines.
Power was cut to about 1600 customers in Dapto, Kanahooka, Koonawarra, Horsley, Yallah and Avondale.
NSW SES Chief Superintendent Tom Jory has warned residents to remain vigilant over the next 24 hours.
“We are still seeing high winds across much of the Illawarra and South Coast region,” he said.
“Our volunteers are responding to a number of incidents, and I expect they will be busy well into the afternoon.
“We ask the community to remain vigilant, particularly regarding fallen trees and powerlines.
“Secure loose items around your property, and if you can avoid being out and about on the roads that will help keep people safe during these high winds.”
Earlier on Monday morning (26 June) a 100km/h wind gust was recorded at Nowra, 93 km/h at Bellambi and 98 km/h at Shellharbour. Winds are expected to remain strong today before decreasing this evening.
A Severe Weather Warning remains in place for damaging winds affecting the Illawarra, South Coast, Central Tablelands, Southern Tablelands, Snowy Mountains and parts of Metropolitan Sydney.
The SES advises residents to park vehicles undercover and away from trees; secure outdoor furniture and loose items; stay away from powerlines and keep monitoring conditions on the Bureau of Meteorology website.
For emergency help, call the NSW SES on 132 500. In life-threatening situations, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.
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