News

The NSW State Emergency Service (SES) is urging people to ‘get ready’ for a potentially wet and stormy Christmas season.

In the past 24 hours alone, 380 NSW SES volunteers have been responding to more than 400 storm and flood related incidents across the state after a severe weather warning was issued.  

The Northern Zone, which takes in Port Macquarie, Newcastle, Hunter and the Central Coast was the hardest hit area overnight, with about 100 incidents responded to.  

Wetter-than-average conditions are expected to continue, with the Bureau of Meteorology predicting a high likelihood of daily showers and severe thunderstorms over the next fortnight in eastern parts of the state.  

NSW SES Commissioner Carlene York APM, said people needed to take steps to prepare for any weather event.  

“As we have seen across the state in recent weeks, storms can happen at any time,” Commissioner York said. 

“Severe storms can be dangerous, damage your homes and properties, and cause injury if you are not adequately prepared. 

“NSW SES encourages people to get prepared by cleaning your gutters, downpipes and drains. You can also do simple things like securing loose items around your homes and trimming trees. 

“If traveling, be aware that flash flooding can occur very quickly and without warning. It is critical you assess the conditions, avoid driving and camping in low-lying areas, and also check live traffic before setting out. 

“Make sure you also have a plan in place in case of an emergency and stay up to date with local forecasts and warnings."

Commissioner York said it was important people have an emergency kit just like they would at home when on holidays.  

“It should have all the same content you’d have at home such as identification documents, medicines, appropriate clothing, food and water, first aid kit, torch and a portable radio and batteries," Commissioner York said. 

NSW SES is also encouraging the community to download the Hazards Near Me app for up-to-date information on local hazards. The ‘watch zones’ on the app can be set up for any location, which is useful if you’re on holidays and unfamiliar with your surroundings. 

For more information on how to prepare for storms, visit ses.nsw.gov.au.  

For emergency help in floods and storms, call the NSW SES on 132 500. In life threatening situations, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.

NSW SES Randwick Unit Commander Peter Struk with volunteers Kelly Crawford, Levi Garry, NSW SES Commissioner Carlene York APM, Randwick NSW SES volunteers Elias Hanoun, Bronwyn Elbourne, Lucy Timms and Jordan Rosen.