Rain totals built solidly today as a band of heavy rain moved through northern NSW – with Gunnedah recording nearly 50mm by 3pm.
Tamworth and Narrabri had over 30mm, with other solid totals east of Narrabri.
Wild weather hit many parts of the state with dust storms, thunderstorms and the prospect of snow down to 1100m in the Snowy Mountains by tonight.
The Bureau of Meteorology was monitoring a large weather system which could see NSW affected by dust storms, strong winds, elevated fire dangers and even a dusting of November snow on Thursday.
The system also has the potential to bring dust, thunderstorms and strong winds to the ACT.
“After several days of storm activity across the region, a deep low developing near Tasmania is about to become the dominant influence.,” the Bureau said. “While there is still uncertainty about the exact impacts of this system, and their likely severity, it is possible we will see raised dust from far western NSW, or across the border, may be carried east by strong winds from Wednesday.”
Also strong winds are forecast for areas of the south east through Thursday and Friday. “Forecasters will be closely monitoring the system and warnings will be issued for areas at risk over land and marine environments.”
The Bureau said thunderstorm activity may continue in parts of NSW and the ACT. “Severe thunderstorms are possible in northern and southern regions of NSW and the ACT.”
In strange contrast, strong winds and very low humidity will lead to Very High fire danger on Thursday and Friday for many parts of New South Wales, including areas around Sydney, Newcastle and Wollongong, the Bureau said.
The Bureau said daytime temperatures over parts of the southern inland are likely to be 8-10 degrees below average on Thursday with the Southern Alps seeing snow showers down to 1100 metres.
“The Bureau of Meteorology is urging people to monitor conditions as the system moves through and watch for warnings. The Bureau is working closely with state and territory emergency services and other key agencies.”
Some areas of southern NSW received over 20mm yesterday, closer down to the Victorian border. There were also some good totals in northern NSW around Wee Waa and Narrabri, with 20mm at Baradine, over 20mm east of Narrabri in the Upper Horton.