News

The NSW SES is urging communities in the south of the State to get ready for severe storms, flash flooding and moderate to major riverine flooding through the weekend. Since the commencement of this weather event, NSW SES has received a total of 180 calls for assistance across the State. The majority of jobs are related to flood preparedness and sandbagging.

Widespread flooding is expected for the Murray River upstream of Lake Hume from Saturday morning onwards - see here for details. This rainfall is expected to cause significant and rapid stream rises, with minor flooding developing during Saturday morning followed within the next few hours by rises above moderate flood levels. 

According to the Bureau of Meteorology, there is a high to very high chance of rain and showers and the chance of thunderstorms in the west and south of NSW on Saturday morning, extending northeast during the day. Heavy falls are possible in the southeast. On Sunday there is medium to high chance of showers in the southeast and on the north coast and adjacent ranges. The chance of thunderstorms will be present in the far northeast.

Multiple warnings have been issued by the Bureau – check for all current warnings here.

What you need to do:

Farmers and landholders in those areas are advised to relocate livestock, pumps and machinery to higher ground. Waste and chemical containers should be located well above predicted flood levels.

Campers adjacent to the river need to monitor water levels and relocate before access is lost due to rising water.

As road closures are possible, plan your trips ahead and be prepared to take detour. Visit Live Traffic for more information.

The SES advises that all community members should:

• Never walk, ride or drive through floodwater
• Never allow children to play in floodwater
• Stay away from waterways and stormwater drains during and after heavy rain
• Keep well clear of fallen power lines.
• Be aware that in fire affected areas, rainfall run-off into waterways may contain debris such as ash, soil, trees and rocks, and heavy rainfall increases the potential for landslides and debris across roads.

For emergency help in floods and storms, call the NSW State Emergency Service on 132 500. In life threatening situations call triple zero (000) immediately.