NSW SES urging commuters to stay safe on NSW roads as heavy rainfall continues

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The NSW SES has today responded to more than 400 incidents across the state, including 6 flood rescues.

NSW SES members rescued a man trapped in a vehicle at Douglas Park earlier today and other SES members were activated at around 11pm last night to an incident involving three people in a vehicle that entered the McDonald River near St Albans.

Further flood rescues were also undertaken at Albion Park, Ourimbah and Hawks Nest.

Assistant Commissioner Colin Malone urged commuters to be careful on the roads with persistent rainfall leading to closures and delays.

“As we head into the afternoon commute please use caution. There is a lot of water on the roads causing access issues,” Assistant Commissioner Malone 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.”

“We have crews prepositioned and ready to respond to any rescues, but we ask the community to please avoid unnecessary travel.”

NSW SES currently has 33 warnings issued (as of 2pm, Thursday 21 August) for residents across the impacted areas from Wollongong to Goondiwindi.

A prepare to isolate warning is currently in place for residents at Calala and Gunnedah.

Moderate to heavy rainfall is forecast to persist in the the northern and central parts of the coast, Northern Ranges, North West Slopes and Plains, and Upper Central West this afternoon, with 24-hour totals between 30 to 80 mm likely and isolated higher falls up to 100 mm possible.

Conditions are expected to ease later tomorrow.

To stay across the latest warnings and advice, download the Hazards Near Me app or visit the NSW SES website.

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).

Media enquiries:
NSW SES Media on 1800 067 234