A "significant wintry blast" is expected to develop across the state in the next few days, bringing the risk of heavy rain, even hail, strong winds and potential of localised flooding.
The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a severe weather warning and a flood warning in the lead up to the front, which will begin developing in the far west and Eyre Peninsula from tomorrow (Thursday).
Senior meteorologist Philip Perkins said there would be significant winds across the region of 40 kilometres an hour to 60km/h, with the potential for gusts in excess of 90km/h.
The front is then moving across the state with falls of 20 millimetres to 40mm expected along the Mount Lofty Ranges and 5-20mm across much of the agricultural areas.
Mr Perkins said there was also opportunity for heavier localised falls alongside thunderstorms.
"Friday will be the peak of the hazardous weather," he said.
"There will be damaging winds of 40-60km/h, with wind gusts in excess of 90km/h.
"Wind of these speeds are capable of causing some structural and vegetation damage, particularly after the recent rainfall."
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He said across the three days, there was the potential of totals of up to 100mm in the Mount Lofty Ranges, which could also bring potential river rises and localised flooding.
"Windy conditions could whip up dust, particularly in driest areas of northern SA. We are urging motorists to drive to the conditions if you are in that area," Mr Perkins said.
By Sunday, the focus of the weather will be on the east of the state, in the Riverland and Mid North. while the risk of hail remains.
"This is the most significant front we've seen this year but its not atypical for this time of year," he said.
State Emergency Services' Darren Halliday reiterated the warning, telling people to consider where they are parking their car, and performing maintenance such as clearing gutters or tying down garden equipment.
He said it was also important to consider the risk of young children, with school holidays still ongoing, and what potential dangers there may be with river rises.
- Details: For all SA weather warnings, visit the website.
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Elizabeth Anderson
Editor of Stock Journal.
Editor of Stock Journal.
