Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued for Sydney: Heavy Rainfall and Flash Flooding Expected

Alert Details

The Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued a severe thunderstorm warning (IDN21035) for heavy rainfall. This is a top-priority alert for immediate broadcast, targeting residents in parts of the Sydney area.

Affected Areas

The warning specifically covers southern Sydney. At 5:35 pm, a severe thunderstorm was detected near Liverpool and Bankstown. The storm is moving toward the southeast and is forecast to affect the following locations:

• Sutherland, Sydney Airport, and Engadine: by 6:05 pm
• Bundeena, Maroubra, and Randwick: by 6:35 pm

What You Should Do

The State Emergency Service (SES) advises residents to take the following precautions:

• Keep clear of creeks and storm drains.
• Do not walk, ride your bike, or drive through flood water.
• If you are trapped by flash flooding, seek refuge in the highest available place and call 000 if you require rescue.
• Stay indoors and away from windows; ensure children and pets remain inside.
• For emergency help in floods and storms, contact the SES at 132 500.

Expected Conditions

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding. The storm system is currently active and moving through the metropolitan region.

Timeline

The alert was issued at 5:33 pm on Sunday, 22 February 2026. The storm was tracked near Liverpool at 5:35 pm, with impacts expected to continue through at least 6:35 pm. The next formal warning update is scheduled to be issued by 6:35 pm.