Severe Thunderstorm Warning Hits Wollongong Region
In a dramatic turn of events, the Wollongong area and broader Illawarra region faced a severe thunderstorm warning on February 10, 2026, prompting residents to brace for intense weather. Issued by the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM), the alert highlighted dangers including heavy rainfall, large hailstones, and damaging winds that could lead to flash flooding and property damage. Although the warning was officially cancelled by 6:50pm the following day, meteorologists caution that the redevelopment of storms remains a real possibility in this volatile atmospheric setup.
The Onset of the Storms: What Triggered the Warning?
The severe weather was sparked by a persistent trough moving through southeastern Australia, creating a moist and unstable environment ripe for thunderstorm development. BOM radar detected supercell thunderstorms northeast of the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), which quickly intensified and shifted towards populated areas. These powerful systems were first spotted near the northwest parts of Wollondilly Shire, Nowra, and the expansive Morton National Park.
Storms were tracking north to northeast at speeds that caught many off guard, with forecasts indicating potential impacts on Albion Park by around 6:35pm. The combination of warm, humid air and the trough's influence fueled the storms' ferocity, turning what could have been a routine rainy evening into a high-risk scenario for the region.
Record-Breaking Rainfall in Affected Areas
Local weather stations painted a picture of extreme downpours. Yalwal, located west of Nowra, recorded an astonishing 75mm of rain in just one hour at 5:26pm, underscoring the flash flood potential. Nearby, Big Hill—northeast of Goulburn—saw 38.8mm fall in the two hours leading up to 4:17pm. These figures not only highlight the intensity but also serve as a stark reminder of how quickly conditions can escalate in thunderstorm-prone zones like the Illawarra.
While the immediate threat to Wollongong eased, a more general severe thunderstorm warning persists across the Illawarra, Central Tablelands, Southern Tablelands, and parts of the Hunter, South Coast, South West Slopes, Snowy Mountains, and Central West Slopes and Plains districts. Residents in these areas are advised to monitor updates closely, as the system's remnants could spark renewed activity.
Potential Impacts: From Hail to High Winds
The BOM's warning emphasized multiple hazards. Large hailstones pose a threat to vehicles, roofs, and outdoor structures, while damaging winds—potentially gusting over 90 km/h—could uproot trees and disrupt power supplies. Heavy rainfall, already evident in the record logs, raises the specter of flash flooding, particularly in low-lying areas and near creeks.
In Wollongong, where urban development meets coastal terrain, such events can strain infrastructure. Past storms in the region have led to road closures, power outages, and emergency responses, and this episode was no exception. Although no major incidents were reported immediately following the warning's cancellation, the potential for isolated damage remains, especially if storms reform overnight or into the morning.
Broader Regional Context
This event fits into a pattern of increasingly unpredictable weather in New South Wales, influenced by broader climate patterns like La Niña's lingering effects. The South Coast, including Nowra and surrounding parks, has seen heightened storm activity this summer, with BOM noting an uptick in supercell formations. For Wollongong locals, it's a call to reflect on preparedness amid a changing climate.
Safety Recommendations from the State Emergency Service (SES)
As the storms raged, the SES issued urgent advice to minimize risks. Key recommendations include parking vehicles under secure cover, away from trees, power lines, and drains to avoid wind-related damage or flooding. Homeowners were urged to secure or stow loose items around yards and balconies, preventing them from becoming projectiles in high winds.
For those encountering fallen power lines—a common hazard in such weather—maintain at least 8 meters of distance, as they may still be live. Report incidents promptly to your provider: Ausgrid (131 388), Endeavour Energy (131 003), Essential Energy (132 080), or Evoenergy (131 093). The SES also stressed avoiding floodwaters entirely—whether walking, cycling, or driving—due to hidden dangers like swift currents or submerged obstacles.
Emergency Preparedness Tips
If trapped by rising waters, seek the highest ground available and dial 000 for rescue. Staying indoors, away from windows, and keeping children and pets inside is crucial during peak storm hours. For ongoing updates, download the Hazards Near Me NSW app or check the ACT ESA website. Traditional sources like TV, radio, or the SES hotline (132 500) and BOM's info line (1300 659 210) provide real-time alerts.
These measures, though straightforward, can be lifesavers. In previous Illawarra storms, adherence to SES guidelines significantly reduced injuries and property loss, proving their value in community resilience.
Looking Ahead: Monitoring and Community Response
With the warning lifted, Wollongong breathes a tentative sigh of relief, but vigilance is key. BOM forecasts suggest lingering instability through the weekend, with possible scattered thunderstorms. Local authorities, including Wollongong City Council, are monitoring drainage systems and preparing for any residual flooding.
Community spirit shines in such times; neighbors checking on the elderly and sharing updates via social media have become staples of regional responses. As Joel Ehsman reported for the Illawarra Mercury, this event underscores the need for robust emergency planning in an era of frequent severe weather.
For residents, it's a reminder to review insurance policies, stock emergency kits, and stay informed. While the skies may clear, the lessons from this thunderstorm warning will linger, reinforcing the importance of preparedness in Australia's dynamic weather landscape.
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