Intense thunderstorm hits Sydney, New South Wales

An intense thunderstorm hit Sydney, New South Wales, on December 5, 2016, producing over 5 000 lighting strikes. Power outages and traffic disrputions were reported across the affected areas.

The severe weather system wreaked havoc across Sydney. The BOM meteorologists issued a severe thunderstorm warning for strong winds and large hail for the Mid North Coast, Metropolitan and portions of the Northern Rivers, Hunter, North West Slopes and Plains, and Northern Tablelands Forecast Districts.

One house, in Huntleys Cove, burst into flames after it was hit by the lightning while another one, located in Peakhurst also sustained damage after a downed tree came crashing through the window.

Severe storm over Sydney, December 5, 2016. Image credit: @Campbe_Official

One person was struck by the lightning at Church Point and taken to the hospital.

Train equipment in western Sydney was hit by the lightning and damaged. The train traffic between Granville and Cabramatta was cancelled, due to urgent repairs, while the trains in the city directions were delayed.

The storm caused power loss across the area, disrupting motor traffic.

The strong thunderstorms arrived after a day of hot weather conditions in Sydney, with temperatures locally climbing up to 37 °C (98.6 °F).

Featured image: Severe storm over Sydney, December 5, 2016. Image credit: @Campbe_Official