ENGLISH     BBC0910weather(Year 2006)

Extreme weather for parts of Australia by Kaye Forster

South-eastern parts of Australia have been experiencing some severe weather conditions over 
the past few days as gale force winds and heavy rain lashed many districts of Sydney.

Severe thunderstorms formed throughout the weekend, bringing torrential downpours, 
large hail and strong winds. Flash flooding caused severe disruptions across the city 
with delays to roads, rail, ferry and plane routes.

Gusts of wind up to 70mph forced Sydney airport to close, causing long delays for 
travellers. 

The rain brought flooding to several major roads causing huge jams and tail backs, 
and causing two mudslides. Train services were halted for several hours. 

Ferry services were also disrupted due to heavy water flow on the city�fs major rivers.

Meanwhile, the storms brought unexpected heavy snowfall to the Blue Mountains, west 
of Sydney. Over 50mm of snow fell in a short space of time, closing mountain roads. 
However, such a late snowfall is not unusual. Snow has been reported on Christmas Day 
in Oberon, west of Sydney ? well into Australia�fs summer season.