URGENT UPDATE: A powerful storm system is sweeping across Australia, unleashing damaging winds and hail, with severe weather warnings issued by the Bureau of Meteorology for multiple regions. As of November 4, 2023, this intense 72-hour weather event is wreaking havoc, particularly along the east coast, where severe thunderstorms are expected to strike later today.
The storm follows a tumultuous Friday, where areas in northern New South Wales and South East Queensland experienced extreme weather, including reports of 4cm hail, flash flooding, and downed trees. Over 10,000 properties in Brisbane and surrounding regions—including Logan, Ipswich, and the Gold Coast—lost power overnight, although most customers had their electricity restored by Saturday morning.
Meteorologist Miriam Bradbury warns that the ongoing storms will bring further risks of damaging winds and large hail, particularly in South East Queensland. “Locally heavy falls are also possible, especially in this region,” she confirmed.
Residents are advised to remain vigilant as the storm system moves through, with warnings stretching from the northern rivers region of New South Wales to Western Sydney and Canberra. The storm’s impact is expected to elevate fire danger warnings across inland Queensland and New South Wales due to high temperatures, which are forecast to soar 2 to 6 degrees above the November average.
The severe weather is not confined to the east coast. Authorities caution that parts of Western Australia and Southern Northern Territory may face similar threats, including damaging winds and large hail.
In Sydney, expect a cloudy day with potential storms and showers reaching a maximum temperature of 27°C. Meanwhile, Brisbane is bracing for a stormy evening with thunderstorms, peaking at 26°C. Canberra will also see showers and storms, with a high of 27°C.
Melbourne residents can anticipate overcast skies with a chance of morning showers, topping out at 21°C. Adelaide is forecasted to remain mostly clear, with an evening shower possible and a maximum of 23°C. In contrast, Perth will enjoy sunny skies, reaching 25°C, while Darwin is set for warmer temperatures of up to 32°C with thunderstorms throughout the day.
As storm conditions continue to develop, authorities urge residents to stay informed and take necessary precautions. Follow updates closely to ensure safety as this severe weather unfolds across Australia.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
