A powerful storm with winds gusting up to 160 kmph raged across Sydney on Wednesday night, bringing the city to a halt. The unexpected strong winds that triggered heavy torrential rains, lightening and snow in some parts have plunged Sydney into darkness.
According to meteorological departments, weather is likely to improve on Thursday as it dissipates later in the day moving northwards. However, Sydney will take time to recover from the unexpected wild storm which had engulfed the city.
As per local media reports, suburbs in Sydney's south and Blue Mountains are worst affected. The rapid development of the storm led to flooding rains and destructive winds. Meanwhile, the East coast also experienced Category III tropical winds.
The city witnessed more than 100 mm of rainfall in less than 12 hours, exceeding the monthly normal of 76 mm. While the raging weather blanketed the Blue Mountains in snow. Most of the roads in and out of Blue Mountains region are blocked due to snow of about 20 cm.
Over 30,000 households without power
Over 30,000 households were without electricity for hours as damaging winds uprooted trees and electricity poles overnight.
Also, several arterial roads were closed, while many trains were delayed or diverted and cancelled, especially those connecting to Blue Mountains.
