The NSW State Emergency Service (SES) is preparing for the impacts of heavy rainfall, strong winds and hazardous surf on the northern NSW coast from today (Sunday).
Slow moving heavy rainfall is expected to last several days across the Mid North Coast and Hunter regions, with minor to moderate flooding likely along coastal catchments.
The Bureau of Meteorology is forecasting widespread 24-hour rainfall totals of 50-100mm, with possible isolated rainfalls exceeding 180mm in 24 hours, which could cause significant flash flooding.
Assistant Commissioner Sean Kearns ESM said rivers and creeks are already responding quickly to renewed rainfall as catchments remain saturated.
“Flood warnings are in place for flooding on catchments across the Mid North Coast and Hunter. The NSW SES has mobilised flood rescue teams and preparing communities for the forecast severe weather,” he said.
“The NSW SES has prepared by repositioning aviation assets and high clearance vehicles throughout the impacted area, but we’re asking the community to do their bit too and know their risk.
“If you do come across a flooded road, stop turn around and find an alternative route.”
Flooding is likely on the Hunter, Williams, Patterson, Myall, Manning, Nambucca, Gloucester, Bellingen and Orara Rivers.
Wind gusts of 70-80km/h is likely about the coast on Monday and Tuesday, and hazardous surf conditions with five metre waves from Sydney to Port Macquarie are expected.
“Coastal erosion is a risk, particularly for Central Coast properties already impacted by significant coastal erosion earlier this year. This includes at Wamberal Beach and The Entrance North,” Assistant Commissioner Kearns said.
In the 24 hours to 1pm on Sunday, the NSW SES responded to 137 calls for assistance. The majority of those were in the Northern Zone, where 97 incidents have been responded to.
The busiest units in the last 24 hours include: Lake Macquarie City (44), Port Stephens (15), Maitland City (8), Gosford (7), Wyong (6), Warringah - Pittwater (5), Waverley - Woollahra (5), City of Newcastle (4), Swansea (4), and Ku-ring-gai (3).
For assistance in floods and storms call the NSW SES on 132 500 or if life-threatening call Triple Zero (000).
Media enquiries: NSW SES Media on 1800 067 234