News

The NSW SES, assisted by a range of other emergency services, local government and other organisations, continues to assist members of the community affected by flooding from ex-tropical cyclone Debbie.

In Lismore the flood gates were opened at 5pm on Saturday afternoon, releasing water out of the CBD back into the Wilsons River. Water levels within the town have fallen significantly, but conditions within the areas affected by flooding remain hazardous. The Evacuation Order is still in place while damage assessments are being carried out.

Some residents and business owners In Lismore residents and business owners are starting to return and undertaking clean-up of premises despite the Evacuation Order in place. This is resulting in large piles of flood-affected goods and spoilt food being placed in the main street causing public safety and health concerns.

The local Council will coordinate the regular emptying of street garbage bins and will organise for large commercial skip bins to be located in the main street for the disposal of flood affected rubbish from today.

Because of the ongoing hazards caused by contaminated mud and water, and the lack of water, sewage and electricity, it is essential that property owners and renters stay out of the evacuation zone until the all clear has been issued. The Evacuation Order will remain in place until impact assessment/structural hazards have been completed and the area deemed safe to return.

Community volunteers ‘mud army’ are asked to similarly respect the evacuation zone until such time as the all clear is given.

Evacuation Orders remain in place affecting approximately 25,000 people in numerous communities. There are approximately 17,000 people who are isolated by flood water

The NSW SES has received a total of 2523 Requests for Assistance (RFA’s) since the commencement of this event with 8386 calls to the State Operations Centre. There have been a total of 475 flood rescues, with flood rescues decreasing significantly. Many roads are still covered by floodwater and it is essential that people stay out of flooded areas.

There are flood warnings current for:

• Moderate Flood Warning for the Wilsons River at Lismore
• Minor to Major Flood Warning for the Richmond River
• Moderate Flood Warning for the Orara River
• Minor Flood Warning for the Severn River
• Minor Flood Warning for the Bogan River, Major Flood Warning for the Macintyre and Weir Rivers.

As part of its response, the NSW SES State Operations Centre has bolstered its Planning, Public Information, Logistics and Intelligence functions to support regional offices and volunteers in the field. There are 195 members in 53 teams deployed to the north of the state to bolster local teams carrying out rescue, transportation and assessment tasks. There is also assistance from the Rural Fire Service, Fire and Rescue NSW, NSW Police, NSW Ambulance, local government and a range of other agencies.

Click here to view current Evacuation Orders and open Evacuation Centres in NSW