Severe storms with hail the size of golf balls lashed Sydney on Monday, closing the airport, grounding aircraft and disrupting the travel plans of thousands of people, emergency services said.
The storms also closed a major rail line, brought down trees and caused damage to homes around the city.
Bureau of Meteorology forecaster Peter Dunda said the storm is expected to head out to sea, although thunderstorms could continue overnight.
”There have been reports of hail the size of golf balls,” he added.
The severe weather hit Sydney as the New South Wales state government declared parts of the eastern state a natural-disaster area after heavy flooding that could leave many homes still cut off over Christmas.
Parts of the state that only weeks ago were still in the grip of a three-year-long drought were by Monday night suffering the effects of severe flooding.
About 270 rural properties are isolated and many will remain cut off by floodwaters for more than a week, the State Emergency Service said.
The state’s Minister for Emergency Services Tony Kelly declared the region a natural-disaster area, saying it ensures the necessary financial assistance is available.
An Insurance Council spokesperson said it is too early to estimate the cost of the flood damage. — Sapa-AFP