Low lying residents in the Northern Tablelands and parts of the Hunter are preparing for flooding as the NSW State Emergency Service (SES) continues to respond to the impacts of the weekend’s severe weather.
While heavy rainfall and damaging winds have eased across Northern NSW, flooding is expected to continue over the coming week.
NSW SES has issued Emergency Warnings for major flooding along the Namoi River at Gunnedah, with people in low-lying properties directed to shelter in place.
At Wee Waa and Narrabri, further river rises are possible over the coming days as floodwaters move downstream. NSW SES is positioning assets into Narrabri in preparation.
In the Hunter, moderate flooding is possible along the Hunter River from Monday afternoon. An Emergency Warning for parts of Raymond Terrace has advised people to evacuate, while residents in parts of Singleton on alert to prepare to evacuate.
NSW SES Deputy Commissioner Debbie Platz APM said while there are blue skies across much of the state, some communities need to continue to stay up to date with the latest warnings and information.
“We urge residents in these areas to stay alert and monitor the Hazards Near Me app or the NSW SES website," Deputy Commissioner Platz said.
“People in the warning areas should consider enacting their emergency plans – that means knowing where you will go in case you are asked to leave.”
Evacuation centres have been stood up at Gunnedah and Raymond Terrace. Click here for the latest information on evacuations centres
NSW SES has responded to 11 flood rescues in the last 24 hours, the majority for vehicles being driven into floodwaters.
“We are seeing water over roads in some areas and urge the community to remain vigilant while behind the wheel,” Deputy Commissioner Platz said.
“Never drive, walk or play in floodwaters. If you come across a flooded road, turn around and find another way.”
Since the start of this event, NSW SES has received more than 3,600 calls and responded to more than 2,200 incidents.
“We’ve had more than 1,500 volunteers out in the field, along with our emergency service partners, working around the clock to keep communities safe,” Deputy Commissioner Platz said.
If you need assistance during storms and floods, call the NSW SES on 132 500. In a life-threatening emergency, always call Triple Zero (000).