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. In the past few hours rain has generally eased with rivers reaching or nearing their peak. A severe thunderstorm warning is also current for parts of the northern inland.
The latest flood and storm warnings are available HERE.
The Bellinger River peaked at Thora just below the minor flood level this afternoon and is now falling. Lavenders Bridge is still closed with access between North Bellingen and Bellingen cut. Access from Bellingen along the Waterfall Way to the Pacific Hwy has been restored for all vehicles with caution. Moody’s Bridge is currently closed and approximately 500 residents in the Kalang area are expected to be isolated until levels subside.
Rainfall has continued in the Orara River valley upstream of Glenreagh. The flood peak is approaching Glenreagh, where moderate flooding is expected around 9pm tonight with rural flooding.
Heavy rainfall has been recorded around Bowraville this afternoon and consequently river height predictions have been revised upwards by the Bureau of Meteorology. The Nambucca River at Bowraville is expected to reach 10.0 metres with moderate flooding around 6pm this evening, and downstream at Macksville a level of 2.1 metres is expected around midnight. Peak predictions are not possible at this stage. Some properties in North Macksville will experience under floor flooding at the predicted height. Residents in the affected area are preparing their properties and will be kept informed if the threat increases. A floodboat crew and vessel are being deployed to the area from Kempsey SES Unit to support local resources.
Bowraville (population 980) is likely to be isolated later this evening with numerous local roads closed including Lanes Bridge, with some 70 people isolated.
On the Orara River, it is expected that the Bluff Bridge will close overnight which will result in the isolation of some rural properties downstream of Glenreagh at Coutts Crossing.
State-wide, the SES has received 57 requests for assistance in the past 24 hours. The majority of these are for roof damage or trees down.
The SES continues to monitor the situation and to respond to requests for assistance as required.
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.
For emergency assistance in floods and storms call 132 500. In a life threatening emergency call 000 immediately.
