HEAVY RAIN FALLS ALONG PARTS OF COAST, SES RESPOND TO MORE THAN 800 INCIDENTS.
05/04/2024 03:22 PM
Editors note: images from the last 24 hours available here.
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A separate VNR will also be issued as soon as it is available.
The NSW State Emergency Service (SES) is advising people to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel as significant rainfall impacts much of the NSW east coast.
A severe storm warning is in place for communities from Gosford in the north, to Batemans Bay in the south, across to Goulburn, with damaging winds and very heavy rain possible.
Meanwhile, residents on the Bellingen River at Thora and Darkwood have been advised to prepare for isolation. Residents in these communities may find themselves cut off by flood water and without power, water and other essential services.
The NSW SES is also closely monitoring conditions along the Hawkesbury Nepean River and Georges River, where minor to major flooding is possible.
Over the last 24 hours, SES crews have responded to 823 incidents, including seven flood rescues. The majority of calls have been for leaking roofs, fallen trees and assisting with sandbagging of properties. There have been no reports of significant injury or infrastructure damage to date.
NSW SES Assistant Commissioner Sean Kearns said conditions are likely to worsen over the next few hours.
“There’s potential for very large downpours of rain between the Blue Mountains and Narooma, which could lead to life-threatening flash flooding,” Assistant Commissioner Kearns said.
“We are particularly mindful as we head into peak hour traffic that some people may get caught out on the roads by flash flooding, which can occur without any official warning.
“Please exercise caution and if you come across a flooded road, please do not drive through floodwater. Obey all warning signs and listen to the directions of emergency services.”
A flood watch is also active for potential riverine flooding in 32 catchments along the east coast, from the Orara River in the North to the Bega River in the South, as well as parts of the Lachlan and Upper Macintyre Rivers.
Across NSW, there are currently 45 warnings. Two of these are at the ‘Watch and Act’ level, with the remainder at ‘Advice’ level.
For the latest warning information please download the Hazards Near Me app, or visit www.ses.nsw.gov.au
Media enquiries: NSW SES Media 1800 067 234 or media@ses.nsw.gov.au.
