City’s peak almost 10C higher than average maximum for August, with ski fields also experiencing warmer-than-usual weather

Sydney experienced its warmest winter’s day in eight years on Wednesday, with the temperature at Observation Hill peaking at 27.5C, almost 10C higher than the month’s average maximum temperature.

The day will end with thunderstorms in central and northern parts of the state as a cool change is forecast for eastern New South Wales due to a trough of low pressure from the west.