Editor’s note: Images from the weather event are available here - https://spaces.hightail.com/space/fny9JhOEcg
More than 1,500 volunteers have been deployed, working long shifts on the ground to support affected communities and keep people safe.
The NSW SES is continuing clean-up efforts after intense rainfall impacted communities across the South Coast, Illawarra, Sydney, Central Coast, Hunter and Mid North Coast. More than 200 jobs remain outstanding, with crews working throughout today and expected to complete the majority of tasks by this afternoon.
More than 2,500 calls for assistance were handled over the weekend alone, with most jobs being in the Sydney metropolitan area, followed by the Central Coast and surrounding regions. Crews were kept busy clearing fallen trees, responding to water entering homes, managing overflowing drains and gutters and assisting communities impacted by flash flooding on local roads and properties.
A landslide at Great Mackerel Beach affected three properties, with all residents safely accounted for and no injuries reported.
NSW SES Assistant Commissioner Sean Kearns said the scale of the response highlighted the commitment of volunteers right across the state.
“Our volunteers showed incredible teamwork over the weekend, responding in difficult conditions and working long hours to help people when they needed it most,” Assistant Commissioner Kearns said.
“Whether it was conducting flood rescues, clearing dangerous debris or helping families protect their homes, our crews went above and beyond to keep communities safe.”
While severe weather warnings have eased, the NSW SES is reminding residents that hazards may still be present, including damaged roads, fallen trees, debris and lingering floodwater in low-lying areas.
“We’re urging people to slow down, take care and make safe choices as they move around their communities,” Assistant Commissioner Kearns said.
“Never drive through floodwater - it’s one of the most dangerous decisions you can make, and it only takes a small amount of moving water to put lives at risk.”
With further storms possible later this week, particularly across northern parts of the state, the NSW SES is encouraging communities to stay informed and avoid becoming complacent.
Residents are advised to plan travel carefully, avoid flooded roads, remain alert for damaged infrastructure and check on neighbours where it is safe to do so.
To stay up to date with the latest information and warnings, download the Hazards Near Me App or visit ses.nsw.gov.au.
If you need assistance during storms or flooding, call the NSW SES on 132 500. In a life-threatening emergency, always call Triple Zero (000).