HomeAUSydney Sizzles then Surprises: Unexpected Downpour Cools Nation's Hottest City

Sydney Sizzles then Surprises: Unexpected Downpour Cools Nation’s Hottest City

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Sydney was the hottest place in Australia briefly today before parts of the city faced a sudden drenching.
The weather station at Sydney Airport hit slightly above 35 degrees just before midday, making the transport hub the hottest place in the country.

Sydney recently experienced an intense surge of heat, attributed to its strategic location in the path of hot north-westerly winds sweeping in from the country’s interior, according to Weatherzone. As these winds descended upon the city, temperatures soared, creating a sweltering environment for residents.

Sydney had the nation's highest temperature just before midday today.
Sydney had the nation’s highest temperature just before midday today. (Weatherzone)
The rare moment was short-lived, however, as a cool change swept through Victoria and parts of NSW’s western and southern regions.

The oppressive heat began to retreat when a southerly shift made its way up the coastline. This shift reached Sydney’s southern suburbs around 2 p.m. and continued its journey northward. As the cooler winds took over, temperatures dramatically dropped by more than 10 degrees within an hour, cooling Sydney to a more tolerable 23 degrees.

The shift brought 14 millimetres of rain to Sydney Olympic Park and six millimetres to the CBD. 
Still of a timelapse of Sydney weather on February 18 2026.
Further showers are expected across the city, including possible storms later tonight. (Nine)

Residents can expect further showers across the city, with forecasts suggesting the possibility of storms later in the evening. In response to the changing weather conditions, a strong wind warning was issued at 4 p.m. for sections of Sydney’s harbor and coastline, urging caution among those in affected areas.

Further showers are expected across the city, including possible storms later tonight.

A strong wind warning was also issued at 4pm for parts of Sydney’s harbour and the coast. 

The wet weather is expected to continue into tomorrow, with the chance of showers that are expected to clear later in the day. 

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