Storm clouds rolling in over Tuggeranong, ACT. Photo: James Coleman.
Canberra and much of NSW are in for a rude start to spring this week, with heavy rain and thunderstorms set to exacerbate what’s expected to be a “severe” pollen season.
The Bureau of Meteorology warns heavy rainfall, damaging winds and thunderstorms will sweep in across the state from today (9 September) through Thursday, with Canberra set to be drenched with 15 to 40 millimetres of rain on Wednesday alone.
Temperatures will range from 7 to 14 degrees before easing to lighter falls on Thursday as conditions swing towards spring warmth (Canberra is tipped to reach 19 degrees on the weekend and 21 on Monday).
Further inland, Wagga Wagga is also in the firing line, with 8 to 35 millimetres expected on Wednesday and a chance of thunderstorms. Temperatures there will range between 9 and 16 degrees, also rising to the low 20s early next week.
The Bureau’s Manager of Hazard Preparedness and Response, Steve Bernasconi, said the unsettled weather is just the start of what’s shaping up to be a wet and storm-prone spring.
Rainfall might have been “below average” for Australia’s southeast over August, but this is tipped to change over the coming months.
“Above average spring rainfall is likely to very likely throughout NSW 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 a greater chance of thunderstorms.”
The SES has issued a warning to homeowners ahead of this week, too. Photo: SES ACT, Facebook.
The NSW State Emergency Service (SES) has also issued its own warning to communities about the potential for damage caused by big storms and flash flooding.
“We’re anticipating a mix of strong gusty winds, rain and hail and some isolated flooding through the week,” NSW SES Assistant Commissioner Dean Storey said.
“To minimise the impacts of downed trees or damage from flying debris, it’s important that people secure loose items around their homes and stay informed by using the Hazards Near Me app or visiting the NSW SES website.”
All of this spells trouble for hay fever and asthma sufferers – as wetter soils and greener pastures combine for a “severe pollen season” – according to Canberra’s pollen expert ANU professor Simon Haberle.
Last year’s grass pollen season was relatively mild, recording just four high and 23 moderate pollen days between October and December, and earlier than usual. Not so this time.
“This year’s grass pollen season has the potential to be much stronger than 2024,” he said.
“September and October will be critical. If conditions stay wet, we can expect higher pollen levels. If it’s dry, the season could remain closer to average.”
Grass pollen is a major allergy trigger in both Canberra and Wagga, with the worst days typically occurring in November when northerly winds sweep pollen across the state.
Professor Haberle urged those with hay fever or asthma to prepare early.
“If you experience hay fever or asthma, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before the season begins. People in this group are strongly encouraged to have a written Asthma Action Plan,” he said.
Canberra Pollen, run by ANU and AirHealth, provides daily forecasts via its app and Facebook page.
