Sydney power out in storms

NINE people have been rescued from floodwaters and more than 40,000 properties left without power after intense thunderstorms crossed Sydney and surrounding areas.

The short but sharp storms last night caused flash flooding in several areas, including Parramatta where intersections became lakes and several drivers needed the SES to help get them out of their cars.

Guildford copped 61 millimetres of rain, including 47mm in just 30 minutes.