Several places across central and eastern Australia have experienced their warmest September night on record. Hot northerly winds combining with a blanket of cloud ahead of a trough and strong cold front were the cause of the warm night. In Sydney, it stayed above 19 degrees all night, which is eight above average and the warmest night since April. The warmest night across NSW was recorded in Ivanhoe, with a low of 26 degrees, which is 17 above average. This is four degrees above their previous warmest September night 11 years ago. Menindee broke a long term record, with a low of 24 degrees, 15 above average and the warmest September night in 43 years of records. Cobar, Hay, Hilston and Wagga Wagga all saw their warmest September night in more than 50 year records. The night time warmth won't last long, thanks to a strong cold front crossing the state today. Night time temperatures will plummet to well below average over the weekend, a caution for campers to bring extra layers of clothing. The rapid change in temperatures as the cold front pushes eastwards will also cause widespread thunderstorms. These storms are likely to become severe today with damaging winds the main risk, although hail and flash flooding are also possible. Make sure to check weatherzone.com.au for the latest updates.