Thankfully, the blistering heat and fierce thunderstorms of the last few days are gone, to be replaced by much milder conditions for the rest of the week.
Many images of the ominous storm clouds from Kurnell to Jibbon Point on Tuesday evening were captured by Leader readers and chief photographer John Veage before the heavens opened.
Kogarah SES posted a video showing the dangerous traffic conditions which ensued as the rain bucketed down.
Rosemaria Molimard used her iPhone to photograph the storm clouds over Wanda beach about 6.30pm while her “crazy” daughter Aria stayed in the water, seemingly unperturbed.
Kogarah SES said in its video post on Instagram, “As you can see conditions were less than ideal travelling south towards Tom Uglys Bridge.
“This storm season we urge drivers to be very cautious of excess water on the roads after witnessing a number of vehicles speeding through large puddles.
“With the likelihood of more storms, please take care in the wet, slow down and remember if it’s flooded, forget it!”
The Bureau of Meteorology issued a severe thunderstorm warning just after 6pm on Tuesday for the Blue Mountains, Hawkesbury region, Greater Wollongong, Sydney, Wollondilly and Wingecarribee.
The storms caused 40.5 millimetres of rainfall, 20 to 30km/h winds and 22,000 lightning strikes, which caused 11,000 homes and businesses to lose power across Sydney.
The Bureau said, after a cloudy morning on Wednesday, some sunny breaks could develop in the afternoon, with southeasterly winds of 15 to 25 km/h becoming light in the evening.
The forecast for Thursday and Friday is partly cloudy and maximum temperatures of 26-28 degrees.
Saturday is forecast to be hot, with a maximum of 31C, and 80 per cent chance of showers, before a cooler day with a maximum of 23C on Sunday, with 60 per cent chance of showers.