News

Residents in the Mid North Coast and Hunter regions are warned of potential severe weather during the coming week.

Communities between Port Macquarie and Gosford should prepare for heavy seas and strong winds, commencing Monday evening, and lasting up to 48 hours.

Operations Commander for the NSW State Emergency Services (NSW SES), Tony Day, said residents should prepare for winds averaging up to 60 kilometres per hour, with gusts of up to 90kph, on Tuesday and Wednesday.

“The Bureau of Meteorology has also forecast swells of up to five (5) metres along the coast, which may cause coastal erosion, especially on southerly-facing beaches,” Mr Day warned.

“We can expect the seas to be at their worst on Tuesday and Wednesday.”

Mr Day (pictured) urged residents to stay clear of areas impacted by damaging surf, erosion scarps and damaged buildings or structures and not to go sightseeing, as this may hinder recovery efforts and put community members and emergency responders at risk.

The NSW SES is encouraging residents to clean roofs, gutters and downpipes, trim trees branches away from property and secure down outdoor items and furniture as a way of preparing their property for severe weather.

Mr Day added the current COVID-19 environment presents additional considerations for emergency services in responding to severe weather events.

“The most practical way the community can help should the predicted weather eventuate is to avoid all not essential travel and to never drive, ride or walk through affected areas,” he concluded.

The SES recommends people monitor the NSW Bureau of Meteorology for any severe weather warnings for heavy rain or severe wind warnings.

Click here for more advice on how to prepare for storms 

Photo: Operations Commander Tony Day

For emergency storm and flood assistance, call NSW SES on 132 500.