Widespread rainfall is forecast in the far northwest of NSW today, spreading to the remainder of the far west on Tuesday. Twenty-four-hour totals of 50-90mm are likely, with isolated falls up to 130mm possible, along with thunderstorms.
Minor flooding is occurring along the Paroo River at Willara Crossing, with flooding possible at Mount Gunderbooka to Wokabity Lake, Bynguano-Lower Barrier Ranfers, Cooper Creek, Lake Frome and Bulla-Bancannia District from Tuesday.
NSW SES Western Zone Incident Controller Annabelle Watson said localised river rises and flash flooding was likely within the areas of heaviest rainfall.
“We could see communities isolated for seven to ten days as roads and bridges become cut off,” Superintendent Watson said.
“We don’t want communities to become complacent. We ask people to check the road conditions on Live Traffic NSW and your local Council website before travelling and consider the consequences of closures.
“Never, under any circumstance, drive through floodwater. If you come across a flooded road, turn around.”
Superintendent Watson said NSW SES was well-resourced to respond to any requests for assistance.
“We have deployed a high clearance vehicle to Broken Hill and have air assets on standby,” she said.
“We are prepared to assist communities with resupply of essential medical, food and water supplies, or rescue if required.
“If you are likely to be isolated, we encourage you to stock up on essential items while it is safe to do so.”
Download the Hazards Near Me app to stay across the latest warnings or visit the NSW SES Website.
Visit the Live Traffic NSW website for the latest road closures and traffic conditions.
For assistance during floods and storms, call the NSW SES on 132 500. If it’s life threatening, call Triple Zero (000).