According to the Bureau of Meteorology, up to 133 millimetres of rain has fallen during the past 13 hours to 8 am this morning. However, the rain intensity has increased since 6am with further heavy rain forecast for the next 24 hours. Minor flooding is expected to develop along Coffs Creek this morning. At this stage it is not possible to predict the flood peak because of uncertainty over how much more rain will fall.
Bureau of Meteorology predicted river Heights:
Coffs Creek at Pacific Highway - reach minor flood level (3 metres) around 10am this morning with further rises possible if rainfall rates increase during the morning. The SES advises:
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Residents and businesses along streams and creeks should take immediate precautions to protect life and property.
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Never drive, walk or ride through flood water - this is the main cause of death during floods as water may be deeper or faster flowing and may contain hidden snags or debris.
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If you are caught in your home during a flash flood, shelter in the highest place. Do not enter flood waters.
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Keep a close watch on the situation, stay tuned to local radio or TV, alert your neighbours (particularly elderly), check pets and livestock and reconsider travel plans.
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Follow the advice of emergency services.
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Stay clear of fallen trees and powerlines as well as creeks, drains, causeways, gutters and streams.
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If flood waters rise around your car, get out and move to higher ground.
FloodSafe advice is available at http://www.ses.nsw.gov.au/topics/2227.html
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
