NSW State Emergency Service (SES) continue to respond to communities affected by flooding, with residents in low-lying parts of Narrabri now urged to evacuate as waters continue to rise.
Sixteen emergency warnings have now been issued in and around Narrabri advising residents to evacuate now due to rising flood water, with Narrabri Creek exceeding the major flood level earlier this afternoon and the potential for further rises this afternoon.
Downstream in Wee Waa, flooding is expected to reach the town during Wednesday evening. A watch and act warning is in place and residents are urged not to enter floodwaters.
The NSW SES has pre-positioned resources in both Narrabri and Wee Waa, including specialist equipment and personnel.
In Gunnedah, the river has peaked, but floodwaters will remain for several days. Some low-lying properties are still under an emergency warning and residents in those areas are advised to shelter in place as it is too late to leave. NSW SES teams have been undertaking resupply operations to assist isolated properties.
Elsewhere, flood conditions continue to ease in the Hunter region, with the Emergency Warning for Raymond Terrace downgraded to Watch and Act.
NSW SES Acting Assistant Commissioner Allison Flaxman urged people in Narrabri to follow the direction of emergency services.
“Floodwater can rise faster than expected and cut off roads, leaving people isolated or in danger,” Acting Assistant Commissioner Flaxman said.
“We are strongly urging everyone in the affected areas to evacuate while it’s still safe to do so. Please don’t wait until it’s too late.”
“Even though the skies are clear in many areas, we are still seeing significant flooding across the Northern Tablelands. Communities should continue to follow warnings and directions from emergency services, as water levels will remain high in some locations for several days.”
Since the onset of the severe weather event, the NSW SES has:
- Received more than 4,800 calls
- Responded to 2,505 incidents
- Conducted 39 flood rescues
- Deployed over 2,200 volunteers across the state
Mobilised helicopters and high-clearance vehicles to support isolated communities
There are currently more than 46 flood warnings across the Upper Hunter and New England regions.
Assistant Commissioner Flaxman said the focus for the coming days will remain on resupply, community support and recovery as floodwaters continue to affect properties and rural roads.
“The NSW SES is reminding people to never enter floodwater. Stop, turn around and find another way and stay informed by using the Hazards Near Me app or visiting the NSW SES website for the latest warnings and updates.”
As the response continues, NSW SES is working closely with local councils, NSW Police, the Rural Fire Service, Fire and Rescue NSW and Disaster Welfare teams to provide support to affected communities. Evacuation centres remain available for residents who need them.
To stay up to date with the latest warnings and emergency information, download the Hazards Near Me app or visit www.ses.nsw.gov.au.
If you need emergency help due to flooding, call NSW SES on 132 500. For life-threatening emergencies, always call Triple Zero (000)