18 January, 2026, 1:18 pm Central - 28°C Rain

Flash floods, evacuations, and a fatality as severe storms hit Sydney

Flash floods, evacuations, and a fatality as severe storms hit Sydney

By Priya Nand
18/01/2026
Source : 7News
Severe storms and heavy rain have triggered flash flooding across Sydney and parts of New South Wales, leading to evacuations, emergency rescues, and one fatality.

According to 7News, a woman was tragically killed when a tree branch fell on her vehicle while she was driving on Macquarie Pass, south of Wollongong in New South Wales.

More than a dozen people were rescued overnight, and thousands sought assistance as floodwaters inundated streets and homes.

Parts of New South Wales, both north and south of Sydney, were battered by intense rain and thunderstorms.

The State Emergency Service responded to over 1,400 calls in 24 hours, including a dramatic rescue in Revesby, NSW, where a driver misjudged the depth of floodwaters on a road.

Evacuation warnings remain in place for several areas, including Sydney's Narrabeen Lagoon.

“Watch and Act” alerts have also been issued for Manly Lagoon, while residents in Yarramalong and Dooralong in New South Wales have been advised to prepare for possible isolation for up to 36 hours due to flooding.

The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a severe thunderstorm warning for Sydney and surrounding regions.

Flash flooding is expected to affect areas such as Sydney Central Business District, Colo Heights, Ryde, Hornsby, Parramatta, and Penrith, with Springwood and Bilpin also at risk.

Authorities are urging residents to stay vigilant, avoid driving through floodwaters, and follow all emergency instructions as dangerous conditions persist.
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