NSW SES urges communities to stay informed with widespread rainfall and flooding expected overnight

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The weather is expected to deteriorate later today, with heavy rainfall likely in areas West of Tamworth and along the northern coast.

Persistent rainfall is forecast from today, peaking tomorrow and easing on Friday along the northern and central coast and adjacent ranges.

With widespread moderate to localised heavy rainfall expected, there is a risk of flash flooding with already elevated river levels, saturated soils and full dams from recent significant weather events.

The NSW SES currently has 25 warnings in place around northern and northwestern NSW advising residents to stay informed.

Forecast rainfall totals from Jervis Bay to the Queensland border indicate widespread moderate totals of 25-45mm are likely and isolated falls of 75mm are possible along the coastal fringe and ranges today.

On Thursday, Widespread moderate rainfall totals of 20-80mm are likely and isolated falls of 120mm are possible along the coastal fringe from Sydney to Ballina, and ranges from Barrington Tops to Dorrigo.

Widespread rainfall totals of 20-35mm are likely for coastal areas and isolated totals of 60mm from Port Stephens to Byron Bay are possible on Friday.

NSW SES Assistant Commissioner Colin Malone said while the NSW SES continues to monitor the rainfall models, residents should know their risk and have a plan in place.

“We know the weather and flooding this year has been tiring for many of you, but please, stay ready and stay safe,” Assistant Commissioner Malone said.

“Have an emergency plan in place, understand your own risk and know where you will go and what you will do if your home and family are impacted.”

“We ask you to stay informed by downloading the Hazards Near Me app and setting up a watch zone for your area, so you are alerted with the latest warnings and advice.”

“You should also stay across the latest weather updates on the Bureau of Meteorology website.”

Assistant Commissioner Malone encouraged residents to start preparing their homes by clearing gutters and downpipes, trimming trees and tying down loose items.

“We would also like to remind everyone to never, under any circumstances, drive through floodwater. If you come across a flooded road, stop, turn around and find an alternative route,” he said.

Since the start of this event, NSW SES has received more than 480 calls and responded to more than 180 incidents.

If you need assistance from the NSW SES, call 132 500. In a life-threatening emergency, always call Triple Zero (000).

Media enquiries:
NSW SES Media on 1800 067 234