NSW communities face increased risk of rain and storms until the end of the year, with communities urged to take advantage of breaks in the weather to check emergency plans and prepare homes.
The Bureau of Meteorology is forecasting increased risk of flooding with predicted heavy rainfall across NSW, following a wetter than usual year with many areas of the state already exceeding their average annual rainfall.
The NSW State Emergency Service (SES) has responded to more than 48,000 incidents across NSW so far this calendar year, more than double last year's total for the same period (21,098) and on track to potentially surpass the busiest year on record (2022).
With the 2025-26 storm season now officially underway, the NSW Government is urging communities across the state to take proactive steps to prepare for severe weather.
This year has already brought record-breaking flooding, a cyclone and damaging winds which caused havoc across the state.
With September to April typically the time when the frequency of storms, strong winds and heavy rain increases, the NSW SES is reinforcing the importance of planning and community readiness.
Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib commended the efforts of emergency service personnel and highlighted the importance of preparation to reduce risk to property and lives.
"We've already seen the consequences of severe weather this year - flooded homes, trees down, power outages and property damage," Minister Dib said.
"SES volunteers and emergency services have been out in force and I thank communities who have worked with them as the state has faced difficult weather conditions."
"Now is a good time to check if there are any further preparations you need to make including any work needed on your property.
"I urge all residents to understand your local risks, check your home and check your plans are up to date in case a natural disaster strikes."
"I also want to acknowledge the ongoing work of our SES volunteers who continue to serve with such commitment, and I encourage anyone who wants to help these important efforts to contact your local unit."
To support communities, the NSW Government is continuing to invest in new fleet and resources as part of a $116 million Fleet Replacement Program to give the SES volunteers up to date and purpose-built equipment to keep communities safe.
NSW SES Commissioner Mike Wassing said preparation is key to reducing the impact of storms on families and communities.
"Storms can develop rapidly and cause widespread damage," Commissioner Wassing said.
"Simple actions like cleaning gutters, securing outdoor items and having a home emergency plan can significantly reduce the impact on your family and property."
"The NSW SES is committed to improving how we communicate with the public. The Hazards Near Me app, Hazard Watch, and the NSW SES website are essential tools for staying informed and safe."
Bureau of Meteorology Manager Hazard Preparedness and Response, Steve Bernasconi said the Bureau's long-range outlook to November shows greater chance of above average rainfall for most of the state.
"Above average spring rainfall is likely to very likely throughout New South Wales and the ACT. There is an increased chance of unusually high rainfall for many areas," Mr Bernasconi said.
"The wet winter for the coast and parts of the north west of the state means riverine flood risk remains high into spring. As we move into the warmer seasons, more rain and heat mean greater chance of thunderstorms. The average spring rainfall in recent decades has been between 100 and 300 mm along the east coast, while western NSW has had 25 to 100 mm."
Mr Bernasconi said daytime temperatures are likely to be cooler than usual for parts of northern NSW and warmer than usual in some coastal and southern parts. Warmer than usual nights are very likely throughout NSW and the ACT.
"Spring and summer are the prime storm seasons for NSW. Coastal lows can also bring storms in spring, increasing the risk of damaging winds and flash flooding," Mr Bernasconi said.
"Stay up to date by using the Bureau's website or BOM Weather app where you can set notifications and locations and be prepared."
Last storm season (September 2024 to April 2025), the NSW SES responded to more than 29,000 storm-related incidents, including 1,271 in the Tweed Heads area, 875 in Sutherland, 820 in Ku-ring-gai, 780 in Mullumbimby and 774 in Hornsby.
Storm safety advice from NSW SES:
Secure loose items around your home and yard.
Clean gutters, downpipes, and drains.
Trim trees and branches near your property.
Move vehicles away from trees.
Prepare a home emergency plan and emergency kit.
Download the Hazards Near Me NSW app and set your watch zones.
For assistance during storms, contact NSW SES on 132 500. In life-threatening emergencies, call Triple Zero (000).
