News

HEAVY RAIN AND THUNDERSTORMS FOR THE NORTHEAST TODAY, INCREASED RIVERINE AND FLASH FLOOD RISK ABOUT THE NORTHEAST THURSDAY INTO FRIDAY.

INLAND FLOODING CONTINUES.

Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms will continue to impact the northeast of the state today, due to a slow-moving low-pressure system in the region. The low is forecast to weaken as it moves off the northern coastline later Friday or early Saturday, before moving further east over the Tasman Sea into the weekend.

NSW State Emergency Service Commissioner Carlene York said the NSW SES was preparing for all scenarios.

“We have pre-deployed personnel, high clearance vehicles and aviation assets to the Port Macquarie and Lismore areas and are local units are on the ground ready to help their communities,” she said.

A local incident management team has been established at Goonellabah and is undertaking planning and intelligence activities and working with our Community Liaison Teams to ensure the public is prepared also.”

The northern half of the coast is expected to be the wettest today (Thursday), with riverine flooding possible from Thursday along the coast from the Northern Rivers, Mid North Coast and Hunter catchments.

The Bureau of Meteorology anticipates moderate to heavy rainfall and possible severe thunderstorms on Thursday into Friday, combined with saturated soils about the state's east, bring an increased risk of significant flash flooding. Gusty winds with thunderstorms may bring down trees and powerlines about the northeast.

Commissioner York said the NSW SES had remained very busy across western and southern parts of the state.

“Many other river systems and towns are experiencing flooding. We’ve conducted 49 flood rescues and handled 543 requests for assistance” she said.

“The number of flood rescues continue to rise with people being trapped in their vehicles. We are again reminding people to monitor road conditions and if you should come across flood affected roads, make the safe decision, turn around and find an alternate route.”

Flooding is being experienced in a number of locations across the State: 

• Major flooding for the Namoi River, impacting Gunnedah and Wee Waa.
• Major flooding for the Macquarie River, impacting Warren, Wellington and Narromine.
• Major flooding for the Lachlan River, impacting Euabalong, Jemalong and Forbes.
• Major flooding for the Narran River.

To view all current weather warnings and monitor conditions visit Bureau of Meteorology

Plan your trip, avoid unnecessary travel and drive to the conditions, for more information visit Live Traffic NSW

Every flood is different. Impacts from recent floods mean conditions and environments may have changed. Future floods may be different than expected or experienced.

People in the impact locations should:

• Keep clear of creeks, low lying rivers and storm drains.
• Never enter flood water.
• Stay vigilant and monitor conditions.

For more information on how you and your family can prepare, visit https://www.ses.nsw.gov.au/disaster-tabs-header/flood/