Residents in parts of the Hunter and Mid North Coast are being warned to prepare for the onset of bad weather.
Persistent rain is likely to continue over the weekend before further heavy rain, damaging winds and large surf intensifies on Sunday night through to Tuesday next week.
Rainfall is expected to be around 20-50mms, however we could see isolated heavier falls of around 100mm in some locations. Damaging winds gusts exceeding 90km/hr are also possible.
NSW SES has prepositioned flood rescue teams and has been engaging the local community ahead of the anticipated weather.
NSW SES Northern Zone Commander Andrew Cribb said the biggest concern with this weather system is flash flooding.
“The ground is very wet, we have seen some serious examples of flash flooding over the last 24 hours and with the weather that is expected over the next four to five days we could see some road closures, isolations and impacts to the community,” Chief Superintendent Cribb said.
“We are asking people to be vigilant, never drive through flooded roads and take some steps now to prepare your homes.
“Simple things like cleaning gutters and drains, putting away loose items around your yard and not parking your vehicles under trees or powerlines can make a massive difference.”
There is some degree of uncertainty over the exact location and timing of the heaviest falls. The NSW SES is expecting localised river level rises, and flash flooding.
The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a flood watch with minor flooding likely from Monday for the following locations:
- Manning and Gloucester Rivers
- Myall River
- Goulburn and Upper Hunter Rivers
- Wollombi Brook and Lower Hunter
- Patterson and Williams Rivers
- Newcastle area
“During severe storms, coastal erosion can happen rapidly, potentially causing damage and putting people, properties, and infrastructure in danger,” Chief Superintendent Cribb said.
“We have seen some impacts during recent storms on the Central Coast, and we will continue to monitor those locations and warn residents as required.
“We ask the community to stay away from exposed beaches and avoid areas where coastal erosion is occurring.”
Yesterday, an intense downpour of rain led to significant flash flooding near Lake Macquarie. The Lake Macquarie unit responded to 46 incidents after 50 mms of rain fell in less than an hour.
Across the state, NSW SES responded to 151 incidents including 1 flood rescue in the last 24 hours.
Media enquiries: NSW SES Media on 1800 067 234