Powerful winds have brought destruction to large parts of the state with reports of damaged rooftops, fallen trees and downed powerlines in many locations.
Across the state winds of more than 100km/h were observed. The NSW SES has responded to more than 1,000 incidents today, and that number is expected to grow into the afternoon as storms rapidly track north-east.
Damaging winds and heavy rain have been observed in Cessnock, Gosford, Orange, Dubbo, Bowral, Mudgee, Bathurst and Katoomba. The NSW SES has issued a number of warnings for the severe weather across the state.
NSW SES Assistant Commissioner Sean Kearns urged people to be vigilant as they head home this afternoon.
"This powerful storm system is tracking across Sydney and is then expected to head north up the coast. It's going to be significant, but short-lived," Assistant Commissioner Kearns said.
"We have received widespread reports of damage to properties, which can potentially be dangerous- with loose items becoming projectiles, fallen trees and risks with powerlines.
"If you come across damage to your homes contact the NSW SES for assistance."
Significant property damage has occurred at Nevertire, west of Dubbo, with at least 6 roofs completely blown off due to major winds, and another property is believed to have been struck by lightning with partial wall collapses and structural damage.
The NSW SES is experiencing a high volume of calls due to significant thunderstorms impacting a large geographical part of NSW.
If you are calling the NSW SES on 132 500, please be patient and we will get to your call.
If you're in a life-threatening situation, please call Triple Zero.
OPERATIONAL STATISTICS
Since midnight Wednesday to 3.30pm:
Statewide incidents: 1145
Flood rescues: 0
By Zone -
Metro Zone (622)
Western Zone (271)
Northern Zone (170)
North Western Zone (36)
South Eastern Zone (26)
Southern Zone (12)
North Eastern Zone (7)
State Headquarters (2)
CURRENT WARNINGS
Emergency: 0
Watch and Act: 1
Advice: 3
Total: 4
Safety messages:
If it is safe to do so; secure and put away and loose items in your backyard or balcony.
Park cars undercover if possible; away from trees and powerlines
If your roof or balcony is struck by a fallen tree/branch or other large debris - stay clear and remain indoors if you can. It may have been structurally weakened, even if there is no obvious damage.
Have your emergency kit and grab and go bag handy in case you lose power.
