Torrential rain overnight caused by a deep low pressure trough over northern New South Wales has resulted in flooding on the Orara, Bellinger and Nambucca Rivers. Rain has generally eased, with river heights easing or approaching their peak.
The latest flood warnings are available HERE.
Rainfall totals in the 24 hours to 9am have included 409mm at Crystal Creek near Bellingen, 399mm at Spicketts Creek near Bowraville, and 183mm at Repentance near Lismore.
Minor flooding is no longer expected at Thora with the Bellinger River slowly falling. At Bellingen the river is below its peak at around 5 metres with minor flooding. Access from Thora to Bellingen is open, but Lavenders Bridge has been closed cutting access between Bellingen and North Bellingen. Although the Waterfall Way to the Pacific Hwy is closed residents can get through to Dorrigo. Four students sitting their HSC exams had to be transported by SES floodboat to attend their exams at Bellingen High School. All bus runs from Bellingen to Coffs Harbour have been cancelled for the day.
On the Nambucca River Lanes Bridge in Bowraville is closed with moderate flooding around Bowraville. At Macksville some properties in the north of the town may have under floor flooding if the minor flood level is reached on the rising tide around 3pm this afternoon. Brouggy’s Bridge (North Arm) is closed isolating approximately 70-80 people. Little Moody’s Bridge on Rodeo Drive is also closed.
On the Orara River minor flooding is expected in Glenreagh this evening.
The SES warns that you do not drive, ride or walk through flood waters as water can be deeper or faster flowing than you think and contain hidden snags and debris. Do not go sight-seeing and follow the instructions of the emergency services.
Severe storms with flash flooding, damaging winds and large hail are likely to impact the north west of the state during today, with flash flooding from storms on the North and Mid-North coasts also expected.
For emergency assistance in floods and storms call 132 500. In a life threatening emergency call 000 immediately.
