Drivers warned to take care as NSW faces heavy rain after Anzac Day long weekend

This past Anzac Day long weekend was marred by significant rainfall across New South Wales, prompting a stern warning for drivers returning from holidays. The state experienced widespread rain, with the most severe impacts felt in the north and north-west regions. Notably, Marrickville recorded a considerable 51 millimeters of rain by 9 AM yesterday, followed closely by Cronulla at 43 millimeters. The New South Wales State Emergency Service (SES) reported a total of 64 incidents statewide since Saturday evening, with 14 of these occurring in Sydney itself—most of which were related to leaking roofs and fallen trees, indicating the extent of the damage caused by the rain. Miriam Bradbury, a senior meteorologist at the Bureau of Meteorology, explained the impetus for the rainfall that coincided with the holiday. "This wet weather started at the Anzac Day long weekend," she stated, indicating that a low-pressure trough combined with an upper atmospheric low-pressure system heightened the likelihood of rain and thunderstorms. There are warnings in place for severe weather conditions in the Hunter and Mid-North Coast regions, with potential for flash flooding and damaging winds reaching speeds of up to 90 km/h. This advisory was critical for residents and travelers, particularly given the holiday traffic returning home. With Collombatti reporting an astonishing 117 millimeters of rain over six hours on Sunday morning, it is evident that driving in these conditions poses serious risks. In Sydney, the forecast shows that rain may persist throughout the day, peaking at around 22 degrees Celsius. Bradbury offered a glimpse of hope, stating that while the low-pressure trough is expected to exacerbate weather conditions today, evening and overnight periods may bring patchy showers and reduced rainfall. However, the city anticipates a dreary week ahead, with temperatures only peaking slightly higher at 24 degrees on Tuesday. These weather conditions serve as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of spring weather, particularly during public holidays when roads are busier than usual. It is imperative for drivers to exercise caution as they navigate potentially hazardous conditions in the aftermath of heavy rainfall, taking care to remain vigilant against dangers like flash flooding and debris on the roads.