Wild storm in Sydney disrupts flights, thousands without power

A powerful storm system battered Sydney for a second straight day, grounding flights, cutting power to more than 35,000 homes, and causing widespread disruption across Australia’s southeast.

A fierce weather system described as a ‘bomb cyclone’ pummelled Sydney, prompting the cancellation of at least 55 domestic flights and causing delays for international travel. Airlines including Qantas and Virgin Australia were affected, while train services across the city also faced disruptions.

Authorities urged residents to avoid non-essential travel as the storm uprooted trees, damaged power lines, and left more than 35,000 properties without electricity in New South Wales.

Meteorologists reported wind gusts exceeding 100 kph and rainfall equivalent to a month’s worth in just six hours in some areas.

Several roads were closed in the Illawarra region due to flooding and debris, while evacuation orders were issued in the Central Coast region amid fears of coastal erosion.

Emergency services are bracing for a busy day as conditions are expected to worsen before easing and moving toward New Zealand, where heavy rain and strong winds are forecast for the North Island from Thursday onward.

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