Editor’s note – Grabs from NSW SES Chief Superintendent Dallas Burnes are available here: https://spaces.hightail.com/space/zmHwlKsezF
In the 24 hours to 3pm on Friday, NSW SES volunteers responded to more than 274 incidents across the state. The majority of those were on the South Coast, with 123 calls for assistance from communities requesting help for leaking rooves, trees down and sandbagging.
Recent rainfall has highlighted how quickly local conditions can shift. In Eden, around 40 vehicles were trapped on the Princes Highway for three hours due to water over the road and a fallen tree, and more than 100 people were temporarily stranded at a golf club when surrounding areas became inundated.
More heavy rainfall and damaging winds are forecast across the South Coast, Shoalhaven, Illawarra and Sydney regions from Friday night and across the weekend. Up to 120mm of rain is forecast over the next three days, with isolated falls of up to 200mm in three days possible with storms.
The NSW SES is encouraging coastal residents and visitors to remain cautious, particularly in low-lying coastal locations near river mouths, estuaries and foreshores were there could be minor flooding.
NSW SES Chief Superintendent Dallas Burnes reminded people that conditions can change quickly during thunderstorms, and flash flooding may occur without warning.
“People staying near rivers, lakes and coastal areas should be prepared to move to higher ground and avoid driving or walking through floodwater if conditions deteriorate. We also advise campers to avoid setting up under trees and to relocate early if their location becomes unsafe,” he said.
“With increased visitor numbers during the school holiday period, travellers unfamiliar with the region are urged to take extra care and check local conditions regularly.
“We encourage people to stay alert, understand their surroundings and keep up to date with official warnings by setting up a Watch Zone on the Hazards Near Me app.”
The NSW SES remains well prepared, with flood rescue crews and assets positioned across the South Coast, Illawarra, Metro Sydney and Central Coast regions to respond if required.
OPERATIONAL STATISTICS
Since 3:00 pm Thursday to 3:00 pm Friday:
Statewide incidents: 274
Flood rescues: 1
By Zone –
Metro Zone (30)
Western Zone (26)
Northern Zone (80)
North Western Zone (10)
South Eastern Zone (123)
Southern Zone (3)
North Eastern Zone (2)