News

The NSW State Emergency Service is ready to respond to calls for assistance, but reminds the community to prepare, as a severe weather warning is issued for the Illawarra and South Coast.

Heavy rainfall may lead to flash flooding along the coast between Nowra and Batemans Bay, as a low impacts the region from late Saturday into Sunday.

The Bureau of Meteorology is predicting moderate to heavy rainfall over the southern half of the NSW coast, and winds sufficient to topple trees and powerlines.

State Duty Commander, Assistant Commissioner Nicole Hogan urged people to prepare, and to not drive, walk or ride through floodwaters.

“Localised flash flooding could result in roads being closed at short notice. Please do not take the risk and find an alternate route if you need to travel” she said.

“Landslips are also possible, and I would urge the public to remain vigilant.”

NSW SES Units in the Illawarra and South Coast region are ready to respond to calls for assistance.

“While the NSW SES is well prepared for heightened levels of operations, it is critically important for people to take responsibility and be prepared,” Assistant Commissioner Hogan said.

“To prepare your home and items ahead of this forecast, tie down loose items, park your car undercover, away from trees and cut branches that could cause damage to your home.”

The community can monitor weather conditions and warnings issued by the NSW SES on our website and Facebook page, or by following the latest weather information from the Bureau of Meteorology. 

To find out more information on how to prepare, people can visit www.ses.nsw.gov.au  

For emergency help in floods and storms, call the NSW SES on 132 500. In life threatening situations, call Triple Zero (000) immediately. 
 
Simple things you can do during a storm to help protect your family: 

• Never enter or travel through floodwater
• Stay indoors, clear of windows
• Stay clear of creeks, drains, causeways, gutters, streams, fallen trees, power lines and damaged buildings
• If driving, put your hazard lights on and pull over to the side of the road keeping clear of drains, causeways, streams, creeks, trees and power lines
• If outdoors, seek secure shelter away from drains, causeways, streams, creeks, trees and power lines
• Listen to your local radio station and other media for information, updates and advice