Is there a wind warning for NSW today? Yes – severe weather warnings are current for damaging winds across south-east NSW including central and southern ranges, Illawarra, Shoalhaven and all of the ACT, with gusts strong enough to bring down trees and power lines.
While catastrophic fire danger threatens much of NSW today, damaging winds are adding another layer of danger across south-eastern parts of the state and the ACT.
Where are damaging winds forecast in NSW today?
The severe weather warning for damaging winds covers:
- Central and southern ranges of NSW
- Illawarra region
- Shoalhaven region
- ACT and Canberra region (entire territory)
How strong are the winds in NSW today?
Wind gusts are expected to reach damaging levels – strong enough to:
- Bring down trees and large branches
- Damage power lines causing outages
- Create hazardous driving conditions
- Make outdoor activities dangerous
- Spread any fires rapidly
The Bureau of Meteorology warns these damaging gusts will continue through Wednesday before easing later in the day.
Why is NSW so windy today?
Strong winds are wrapping around a couple of low pressure troughs moving across south-eastern Australia. These systems are creating windy conditions not just across NSW, but also parts of Victoria, Tasmania, and South Australia.
However, it’s the south-eastern NSW area that’s expected to see the strongest and most damaging gusts today.
Will there be power outages in Sydney today?
Power outages are likely across affected areas today due to:
- Trees and branches falling on power lines
- Wind damage to power infrastructure
- Precautionary shutdowns in extreme fire danger areas
Residents should prepare for possible outages by:
- Charging all devices now
- Having torches and batteries ready
- Knowing how to manually open garage doors
- Keeping fridges and freezers closed if power fails
Is it safe to drive in NSW today?
Driving conditions will be hazardous due to:
- Strong crosswinds affecting vehicle control
- Fallen trees and branches blocking roads
- Reduced visibility from dust and debris
- Potential for sudden wind gusts
Driving safety tips for today:
- Reduce speed, especially high-sided vehicles
- Grip steering wheel firmly
- Watch for fallen debris on roads
- Avoid parking under trees
- Delay travel if possible
Can I go outside in damaging winds?
Outdoor activities are dangerous during damaging winds. Avoid:
- Walking near trees that could drop branches
- Outdoor sports or recreation
- Working on roofs or ladders
- Beach activities (dangerous surf conditions)
- Unnecessary travel
If you must go outside, stay away from trees, power lines, and unsecured structures.
What should I do to prepare for damaging winds?
Before winds intensify:
- Secure all outdoor furniture, trampolines, toys
- Park vehicles away from trees
- Close windows and doors
- Bring in loose items that could become projectiles
- Clear gutters of leaves (fire risk when winds drop)
- Charge phones and devices
- Have emergency kit accessible
During damaging winds:
- Stay indoors away from windows
- Don’t go outside to secure items once winds arrive
- Keep away from fallen power lines (assume all are live)
- Monitor BOM warnings and radar
When will the damaging winds ease?
Winds are expected to ease back later on Wednesday as the low pressure system moves through. However, conditions will remain windy across much of south-eastern NSW throughout the day.
Are there other warnings for NSW today?
Yes, today is a dangerous multi-hazard day:
- Catastrophic fire danger around Dubbo
- Extreme fire danger Sydney, Hunter, Illawarra, Riverina
- Total fire bans across all of NSW
- Severe thunderstorm risk with giant hail and destructive winds
- Temperatures to 40°C across much of the state
This combination of extreme heat, damaging winds, and catastrophic fire conditions makes today one of the most dangerous weather days of the year.
Monitor conditions constantly via bom.gov.au and follow all advice from emergency services.