Severe Winds Disrupt Flights in Sydney, Melbourne, NSW

Severe winds, with gusts exceeding 90 km/h, have disrupted flights at major Australian airports, notably Sydney and Melbourne, leading Virgin Australia and Qantas to cancel or consolidate flights and advise passengers to monitor for delays. The Bureau of Meteorology issued severe weather warnings for large areas of New South Wales, including Sydney, Illawarra, and the ACT, as a cold front brings damaging winds. This follows research linking global warming to more frequent and intense thunderstorm downbursts and microbursts, increasing aviation risks. A recent incident in May 2024 saw turbulence injure passengers on a Qantas flight into Brisbane, underscoring the hazards posed by extreme weather. Experts warn that climate change is fueling stronger thunderstorms, necessitating increased vigilance from air safety authorities and airlines, particularly during takeoff and landing. Travellers are advised to check flight statuses and prepare for continued disruptions.