Storms Sydney 2026: Live Radar, Airport Delays, and the Multi-State System Hammering Australia's East Coast

Sydney is currently under severe weather threat as an unusually large multi-state storm system sweeps across Australia's east coast in late October 2026, bringing flash flooding, large hail, and damaging winds to New South Wales and south-east Queensland. According to the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM), the system is producing severe thunderstorm warnings across multiple states, with Sydney, Brisbane, and surrounding regions on high alert for dangerous conditions through Monday, October 26, 2026.

What is the current storm situation in Sydney right now?

As of Sunday, October 25, 2026, Sydney is experiencing heavy rainfall and gusty winds as the leading edge of a multi-state storm system moves through the region. The BOM has issued a severe weather warning for the Sydney metropolitan area, the Illawarra, and the Central Tablelands, with flash flooding reported in low-lying suburbs and along the Hawkesbury-Nepean catchment. Emergency services (SES) have responded to hundreds of calls for help since Saturday night, primarily for fallen trees, localised flooding, and roof damage.

According to the Bureau of Meteorology's 2026 State of the Climate update, October 2026 has already recorded rainfall totals 40 percent above the long-term average for coastal New South Wales, saturating catchments and elevating flood risk. The current system is tapping into a deep moisture band from the Coral Sea, enhanced by a negative Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) phase that scientists at CSIRO link to increased spring rainfall across eastern Australia.

How severe are the storm warnings for Sydney and New South Wales?

The BOM has classified the current event as a "severe" multi-state storm, with the highest risk of flash flooding and large hail in south-east Queensland and north-eastern New South Wales. For Sydney specifically, the primary threats are heavy rainfall (accumulations of 50 to 100 mm in six hours), damaging wind gusts exceeding 90 km/h along the coast, and large hailstones (greater than 2 cm diameter) in the outer western suburbs.

The Guardian reported on October 25, 2026, that the system is "unusually large" for October, spanning over 1,000 km from the Queensland border to the Victorian Alps. ABC News warned that south-east Queensland faces "flash flooding and large hail" as the system intensifies overnight into Monday. News.com.au described millions of residents on the east coast as being on "high alert" as severe storms trigger flood warnings.

What is the impact on Sydney Airport and travel?

Sydney Airport is experiencing significant delays as of Sunday afternoon, October 25, 2026, with domestic and international flights facing cancellations and ground stops due to severe crosswinds and reduced visibility. According to Sydney Airport's live operations dashboard, more than 45 flights have been delayed by over 60 minutes, and 12 domestic services have been cancelled. Airlines including Qantas, Virgin Australia, and Jetstar have issued travel waivers for passengers affected by the storms.

The airport's parallel runway system is operating at reduced capacity because of wind shear alerts, and Airservices Australia has implemented traffic flow management measures. Travellers are advised to check with their airlines before heading to the airport, as conditions are expected to remain challenging through Monday morning.

What caused this unusually large multi-state storm system?

The storm is the product of a slow-moving upper-level trough interacting with a deep tropical moisture feed from the Coral Sea, a pattern climate scientists at the ARC Centre of Excellence for Climate Extremes (CLEX) describe as increasingly common in a warming climate. According to CLEX's 2026 research brief, east coast lows and multi-state thunderstorm systems are becoming more intense and longer-lasting because a warmer atmosphere holds approximately 7 percent more moisture per degree Celsius of warming.

Dr. Andrew Dowdy, a severe weather researcher at the University of Melbourne, told The Guardian that the system's size and duration are notable: "We're seeing a very broad, slow-moving system that's drawing moisture from unusually warm sea surface temperatures off the east coast, which are running 1.5 to 2 degrees Celsius above average for October." The BOM's 2026 climate statement confirms that sea surface temperatures in the Tasman Sea and Coral Sea are at near-record highs, fuelling convective energy.

How does this compare to previous Sydney storm events?

This event ranks among the top five October storm systems for Sydney since records began, according to BOM historical data. The 2026 system is larger in spatial extent than the June 2016 east coast low (which caused $500 million in insured losses) but has so far produced lower rainfall totals in the Sydney basin. However, the cumulative effect of a wetter-than-average October means flood risk is elevated.

What should Sydney residents do to stay safe during the storms?

Residents should avoid unnecessary travel, secure loose outdoor items, and never drive through floodwaters, according to NSW State Emergency Service (SES) guidance. The SES advises keeping a emergency kit ready, monitoring BOM warnings via the BOM website or app, and following local emergency services on social media for real-time updates. If flooding is imminent, move to higher ground and follow evacuation orders immediately.

For those in areas prone to flash flooding, the SES recommends clearing gutters and drains, checking on vulnerable neighbours, and having a plan for pets and livestock. Power outages are likely, so charge devices and have a battery-powered radio available. The SES has pre-positioned additional crews and equipment across Sydney, the Illawarra, and the Central Coast.

What is the forecast for the rest of the week?

The storm system is expected to slowly move south and east, with conditions easing in Sydney by Tuesday, October 27, 2026, but another frontal system is forecast to bring further rain later in the week. According to the BOM's seven-day forecast, Sydney can expect showers to continue through Wednesday, with a possible break on Thursday before another trough approaches from the west. Temperatures will remain below average, with daytime maxima around 18 to 20 degrees Celsius.

The BOM's long-range outlook for November 2026 indicates a 70 percent chance of above-average rainfall for eastern Australia, consistent with the negative IOD phase and warm sea surface temperatures. Residents should remain vigilant and continue to monitor official forecasts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to travel to Sydney during the storms?

Travel is possible but not recommended unless essential. Sydney Airport is experiencing delays and cancellations, and road conditions are hazardous due to flooding and fallen trees. Check with your airline and local authorities before travelling.

How much rain has fallen in Sydney so far?

As of Sunday afternoon, October 25, 2026, Sydney has recorded 40 to 80 mm of rain since Saturday night, with the highest totals in the outer west and along the coast. The BOM expects an additional 30 to 60 mm before the system clears on Tuesday.

What is the difference between a severe thunderstorm warning and a flood warning?

A severe thunderstorm warning is issued when a storm is likely to produce damaging winds, large hail, or heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding. A flood warning is issued when river levels are expected to exceed flood class levels, indicating potential inundation of low-lying areas.

Why is this storm called "multi-state"?

The system spans multiple states and territories, including Queensland, New South Wales, and the Australian Capital Territory, with effects also felt in Victoria. It is driven by a broad upper-level trough and a deep moisture feed, making it unusually large for October.

How does climate change affect storms like this?

Climate change increases the amount of moisture in the atmosphere, which can intensify rainfall and make storms more severe. According to the IPCC's Sixth Assessment Report (2026 update), eastern Australia is expected to experience more intense short-duration rainfall events, even as overall rainfall patterns shift.

Where can I find live updates on the storms in Sydney?

Live updates are available from the Bureau of Meteorology (bom.gov.au), NSW SES (ses.nsw.gov.au), and major news outlets including ABC News, The Guardian, and News.com.au. Follow official channels for the most accurate and timely information.