Australia’s biggest airport has been thrown into chaos after a severe storm caused significant flight delays.
The thunderstorms struck near Sydney Airport on Sunday afternoon and have caused delays with departing aircraft.
‘Passengers travelling this afternoon and evening should stay alert for messages from their airline,’ a Sydney Airport spokesperson said.
The severe conditions are expected to ease in the evening.
The flight disturbances come amid hundreds of calls to the SES throughout New South Wales.
Volunteers have responded to more than 900 calls for help since the devastating storms began earlier this week.
Those calls included nine flood rescues across the state, including in the Northern Rivers, Illawarra, Sydney and western NSW.
NSW SES State Duty Commander, Acting Assistant Commissioner Paul McQueen reminded people to stay across the latest warnings and never drive through floodwater.
The massive thunderstorms hit Sydney on Sunday afternoon, causing departing flights to be delayed (pictured a stock photo of planes at Sydney Airport)
‘While all people were safely rescued overnight, it’s a reminder of the dangers posed by taking the risk of driving through floodwater,’ he said.
‘The message is simple – Please never drive, ride, or play in floodwaters. I also want to thank those who do the right thing and turn around to find another way. By doing this, you are saving our volunteers from being put into harm’s way.’
The Bureau of Meteorology warned the wet weather will continue through December with above average rainfall, widespread rain, showers, and thunderstorms with moderate to heavy falls to continue into next week, increasing the risk of flash flooding and riverine rises.
Acting Assistant Commissioner McQueen warned residents and travellers to stay on top of storm plans this wet season.
‘With more rainfall predicted over the summer period, travellers heading to caravan parks and resorts in low lying areas should have a plan and prepare for possible heavy rain, which can lead to flash flooding and riverine rises,’ he said.
‘You don’t know what condition the road underneath the water is in and can’t see hidden obstacles and debris under the surface. Flooded rivers may also contain hidden debris, snakes, spiders, chemicals and sewage.’
The NSW SES also encouraged residents to use the Hazards Near Me app to receive alerts about warnings in their area.
‘During holiday periods, it’s crucial for those unfamiliar with their surroundings to use the Hazards Near Me app,’ Acting Assistant Commissioner McQueen said.
Set a watch zone for your holiday destination to receive alerts about storms, floods, and other hazards, and know how to stay safe.’
