Video: Rare Tornado Hits Australia's New South Wales amid Warnings of Heavy Rain Season

A rare tornado swept across the skies of New South Wales on Wednesday afternoon, raising fresh concerns about destructive storms and flash floods as meteorologists warn of a potentially prolonged wet season linked to a possible return of La Niña.

The twister was spotted near the town of Toppel and captured by a Rural Fire Service surveillance camera before being confirmed by the Bureau of Meteorology. 

Remarkable footage of the moment a tornado forms near Tubbul, north-west of Young, captured from @NSWRFS South West Slopes Zone around 3.30pm this afternoon.

🎥: NSW RFS South West Slopes Zone pic.twitter.com/FncuGXPGmk

— Michael McCormack (@M_McCormackMP) September 10, 2025

While no major damage or injuries were reported, authorities urged residents to stay indoors and on alert as severe weather conditions persist.

The tornado formed after a cold front pushed through central New South Wales, triggering violent thunderstorms. 

Officials warned of the risk of further tornadoes, damaging winds, large hail, and heavy rainfall that could spark flash flooding. 

Several towns, including Young and Cowra, were highlighted as vulnerable, with rainfall totals exceeding 50 millimeters and winds reaching up to 90 km/h in some areas.

The system is expected to intensify as it moves toward the coast, with heavy downpours likely to continue into Thursday morning. 

Severe weather alerts were issued across multiple regions, including Illawarra, the South Coast, and parts of Sydney.

Meteorologists say current patterns show strong signs of a fifth La Niña event in just six years, a development that could bring months of above-average rainfall to eastern, central, and northern Australia.