Tip fees waived for Sydney storm cleanup

Residents and businesses affected by the severe thunderstorms which hammered parts of southern Sydney will be able to dump rubbish without being charged, the state government says.

"The NSW government will help by waiving the waste levy for all waste in the Kurnell area, including bulk waste and asbestos generated from the storm," Environment Minister Mark Speakman said on Wednesday night, adding the waiver will last until the end of February.

Winds gusting up to 213km/h were recorded at Kurnell on Wednesday morning, setting a NSW record and wreaking havoc through the suburb, leaving trucks overturned and forcing the multibillion dollar desalination plant and local school to be evacuated.