Editor’s note: Grabs from Assistant Commissioner Hogan, including on the impacts in South West Rocks, are available here – https://spaces.hightail.com/space/8dkRbt5n3J
Moderate to heavy rainfall is forecast to persist in the Coffs Coast, Mid North Coast, Upper Hunter and New England regions this afternoon, with 24-hour totals between 65 to 100mm likely, and isolated falls exceeding 130mm possible.
NSW SES has issued 28 warnings (as of 1pm, Saturday 2 August) for residents across the impacted areas to stay informed about storms, and predicted minor flooding, as well as possible moderate flooding along the Peel River at Tamworth and Namoi River at Gunnedah.
Assistant Commissioner Nicole Hogan ESM said heavy and persistent rainfall could see roads become flooded and impassable.
“We've had crews in Tamworth doorknocking low-lying areas to alert locals of potential localised flash flooding and road closures overnight tonight,” Assistant Commissioner Hogan said.
“We implore the community to never drive, walk or play in floodwater – if you come across a flooded road, turn around and find an alternative route.”
Unusual snow levels have been reported at Armidale and Guyra and falls of up to 50cm are possible throughout Saturday.
Assistant Commissioner Hogan said black ice was a significant risk and was causing dangerous road conditions throughout the Northern Tablelands.
“We have road crash crews prepositioned and ready to respond to any rescues, but we ask the community to please avoid unnecessary travel,” she said.
“If you do need to be on the roads in areas with snow, drive with caution, always use your brakes gently and drive slowly.”
Damaging wind gusts exceeding 90km/h and large and powerful surf are also forecast. To stay across the latest warnings and information, download the Hazards Near Me app.
Assistant Commissioner Hogan said more than a thousand NSW SES volunteers have been activated to respond to the increase in calls this weekend
NSW SES has responded to more than 750 calls to the State Operations Centre since the onset of the severe weather.
If you need assistance during storms and floods, call the NSW SES on 132 500. In a life-threatening emergency, call Triple Zero (000).
Media enquiries:
NSW SES Media on 1800 067 234