Source: Bureau of Meteorology

For people in parts of Gosford/Wyong and Sydney areas.

Issued at 1:59 pm Saturday, 17 January 2026.

INTENSE RAINFALL WITH THUNDERSTORMS NORTH OF SYDNEY AND SOUTHERN CENTRAL COAST.

The Bureau of Meteorology warns that, at 2:00 pm, a severe thunderstorm likely to produce heavy, locally intense rainfall that may lead to dangerous and life-threatening flash flooding was detected near Palm Beach and Avalon Beach. This thunderstorm is slow moving. It is forecast to affect Umina by 2:30 pm and Woy Woy, Terrigal and Erina by 3:00 pm.

The State Emergency Service advises that people should:
* Keep clear of creeks and storm drains.
* Don't walk, ride your bike or drive through flood water.
* If you are trapped by flash flooding, seek refuge in the highest available place and ring 000 if you need rescue.
* Stay indoors away from windows, and keep children and pets indoors as well.
For emergency help in flood and storms, ring the SES on 132 500.
Stay updated on the Hazards Near Me NSW app or the ACT ESA website (https://esa.act.gov.au).