According to the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) strong and gusty southerly winds and large waves are continuing to affect the NSW coastline. These large waves are occurring in conjunction with unusually high tides which may cause flooding of low lying areas.

For the next 24hrs a large swell from the south with very heavy surf will affect the coastal regions of the NSW coast. Offshore from Sydney the swell is currently between 7-8metres and will slowly ease during this evening.

A high tide is forecast for 9:40pm tonight which coupled with the swell may lead to coastal erosion and there is a continuing risk of flooding in low lying areas and lagoons.

The low pressure system is currently sitting over Lord Howe Island where there is heavy surf and the possibility of flooding of the lagoon on the island.

There will be continuing windy conditions for the NSW coast with average speeds of winds of 25-33knots for the next 24hrs.

The NSW SES has now received 1472 requests for assistance. Around 300 remainm to be completed. It is envisaged that the majority of outstanding Requests for Assistance (RFA’s) will be completed by this evening. There are currently 260 volunteers in the field completing these tasks.

Power utilities have advised power will be restored to the majority of the remaining 500 properties affected in the Illawarra and South Coast areas by this evening.

SES operations are still focused on storm response operations and property protection measures along the coastal fringe of NSW with property protection measures having taken place in some low-lying areas at risk of tidal inundation due to the very high tides. Previous nights’ hot spots are being monitored as required.

The NSW SES urges people to stay well clear of the surf zone and to not enter areas flooded by seawater.

If you have received damage from the winds and heavy rain and require emergency help, call the NSW SES on 132 500 or 000 if it is a life-threatening emergency.