Following several days of dry and sunny weather, conditions are set to change as 2018 comes to an end.

A low pressure trough, which has been directing very hot air across the southeast of Australia, is forecast to gain moisture as to pushes further north over New South Wales on Monday. This trough will likely trigger thunderstorms over parts of the state.

New Years Eve will be another hot one for the Harbour City, with temperatures expected to peak in the low-to-mid-30’s.

Mid-to-high-level cloud looks to increase through the day, which should provide some relief from the strong December sun to those setting up camp in preparation for the light show.

Thunderstorms and showers become a chance for the Sydney area from around mid-afternoon on New Years Eve through into the early hours of 2019. 

Models currently suggest that western suburbs are most prone to seeing sparks in the sky, which could prove to be a nice backdrop to the fireworks taking place in the harbour. However, any storm brings the risk of damaging wind gusts, which could interfere with the display.

Although storms are by no means a guarantee, it is probably a good idea to keep up to date with the latest forecast and pack some waterproof clothing just in case.

weatherzone.com.au