FRIDAY UPDATE:
The State Emergency Service Sutherland Shire unit received 27 calls for assistance yesterday as strong winds lashed Sydney.
There were 22 requests for help for fallen trees and branches on homes and garages and five calls for other damage to property.
The unit had six teams out in the field, some of which were working until midnight.
THURSDAY:
Another day of high temperatures and strong winds is expected for Sydney today.
The NSW Rural Fire Service has issued a total fire ban for the greater Sydney region; the rating is ‘‘severe’’.
The Bureau of Meteorology has tipped the mercury to soar to 34 degrees in the city with north-westerly winds of up to 45km/h in the morning and south-westerly winds of about 30km/h in the afternoon and evening.
A weather update for the Sydney area at 12.25pm today, said wind gusts of up to 83km/h were being recorded at Lucas Heights while Kurnell recorded 63hm/h wind gusts.
At Caringbah, Oleander Parade was closed for several hours after a large tree was blown over and fell across the road.
SES Sutherland Shire unit local controller, John Gonzalez, said there were six requests for assistance today due to fallen trees and branches.
It is likely to be Sydney’s fourth day above 30 degrees this month.
The record is six for October.
The strong winds and ‘‘high’’ pollen count are also making it difficult for asthma sufferers.
Asthma Australia said the pollen count is expected to remain high tomorrow, with the warm and windy weather predicted.
The weather is also believed to have caused power problems in St George area: http://www.theleader.com.au/story/1847685/blackout-hits-lugarno-peakhurst-and-riverwood/?cs=1507
Have you had any damage at your house or business?
