At 11:30am this morning, the Bureau of Meteorology advised that a trough over north eastern NSW coupled with upper trough and moist onshore winds is expected to produce locally heavy rain over the next few days in north east New South Wales. As a result, the Bureau has issued a Flood Watch for the Bellinger, Nambucca and Orara River valleys and Coffs Creek for possible minor to moderate flooding. This Flood Watch is a "heads up" for possible future flooding and is NOT a Flood Warning.
A Severe Weather Warning for possible flash flooding is also current for the NSW northern rivers and mid north coast.
This Flood Watch means that people living or working along rivers and streams must monitor the latest weather forecasts and warnings and be ready to move to higher ground should flooding develop. Rural property owners along affected rivers and streams should move livestock to high ground ensuring that they have adequate feed. They should raise pumps and should move equipment above the level of possible floodwaters. Properties that might become isolated should stock up on fuel, food and essential medical supplies.
Flood Warnings will be issued if Minor Flood Level is expected to be exceeded at key sites along the main rivers for which the Bureau of Meteorology provides a flood warning service.
FloodSafe advice is available at www.ses.nsw.gov.au The SES urge that you never drive, ride or walk through floodwaters as they may be deeper or faster flowing than they look and may contain hidden snags and debris.
For emergency assistance call the SES on telephone number 132 500. In life threatening emergencies, call 000 immediately.
For the latest weather forecast see www.bom.gov.au/weather/nsw
