extreme weather

An inland low and coastal trough joining forces over New South Wales (NSW) is forecast to bring heavy localised falls to much of the state on April 5.

Heavy and intense rain is anticipated for NSW residents from April 4, exceeding 100mm with totals close to 200mm.

‘A one-in-100-year flood is really serious and we’re taking it incredibly seriously.’

The fire started near Toodyay Road in Gidgegannup and the alert was upgraded as it intensified.

Residents were told to shelter at the police station, health facility or dozens of dwellings capable of withstanding a category three system.

An extreme fire danger rating is in place for the southwest region of Victoria until Monday night, March 11, with emergency crews on high alert.

The blaze at Ravenswood, a Launceston suburb, was reported around 3.20pm on March 6 and sparked a watch and act alert.

‘The figure we have been given to get our water back up to a perfect solution is around the $150 million mark.’

The temperature peaked just under 35C at Sydney Airport while further west Canterbury, Homebush, Holsworthy and Richmond all passed 39C.

A government report examines the impact of extreme weather incidents on Australia.

‘The temperatures have shot up, the winds have shot up.’

The fire has burned more than 20,800 hectares and destroyed six homes along with sheds and fences.

About 1000 firefighters have been battling the blaze including those operating water bombing aircraft.

‘The fire threat is far from over.’

The weather system is barrelling towards Western Australia and should cross the border near  Halls Creek as it tracks towards the coast.

The four had been sitting under a tree in the gardens near Australia’s Sydney Opera House when it was hit by lightning.

‘Many have lost houses and there’s a lot of broken hearts and broken dreams out there.’

More than two dozen homes along with outbuildings and vehicles have been destroyed.