ILLAWARRA AND SOUTH COAST HIT BY HEAVY RAINFALL, WARNING ISSUED FOR PARTS OF SYDNEY

09/02/2023 03:07 PM

The NSW State Emergency Service (SES) has responded to more than 500 calls for help as intense heavy rainfall lashed parts of the south coast, Illawarra and metropolitan Sydney areas. 

The Illawarra region was one of the hardest hit, with over 350 incidents and 21 rescues from flood water recorded since midnight.   

NSW SES Southern Zone Deputy Commander Sharon Fox said conditions were still quite dynamic across much of the Illawarra and south coast. 

“Conditions right now are very hazardous – a number of schools have closed and school bus trips have been cancelled due to the weather,” she said. 

“We’re asking parents picking their children up from school today to exercise caution and be sure to check the roads and routes they’re travelling. 

“Localised flooding resulted in a number of roads being closed.” 

Deputy Commander Fox said the NSW SES and emergency partners had conducted a large number of flood rescues from vehicles and buildings, and provided sandbagging assistance to a childcare centre.  

NSW SES State Duty Commander Colin Malone said the intense rainfall was expected to continue for into this evening. 

“The weather system we’re monitoring has the potential to move into the metropolitan parts of Sydney and could be problematic during peak hour traffic,” he said. 

State Duty Commander Malone said it is important people remain up to date with the warnings and monitor conditions before driving. 

“If you come across a flooded road, the best advice is to turn around and find an alternative route,” he said. 

“You should also seek shelter at higher ground if you can and avoid storm water drains! 

For emergency help in floods and storms, call the NSW SES on 132 500.  

In life threatening situations, call Triple Zero (000) immediately. 


Media enquiries: NSW SES Media 1800 067 234 or media@ses.nsw.gov.au


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