News

The NSW SES carried out more than 160 flood rescues overnight and into this morning, following a severe weather event that resulted in flash flooding and damage to properties and roads throughout Sydney, the Illawarra and South Coast.

More than 200ml of rain impacted parts of Sydney and the Illawarra, with around 4,000 NSW SES volunteers responding to 3135 calls for help over a 24-hour period.

As rain conditions clear in the north of the state, Sydney and the Illawarra, NSW SES volunteers are supporting clean up activities and responding to reports of fallen trees, property damage and landslides.

The weather system is currently moving south, impacting parts of the south coast, and is expected to move off the coast this evening. There is a chance of storms later this afternoon in the north east and central west parts of the state.

NSW SES State Duty Commander, Assistant Commissioner Dean Storey, said riverine flooding will continue to impact people who live in low-lying properties along the Hawkesbury, Nepean and Colo Rivers.

“While the significant rain event has now passed and blue skies have returned, flooding is expected to occur for residents in the Hawkesbury Nepean and Colo communities as the rainfall moves into the rivers and downstream over the coming days,” Assistant Commissioner Storey said.

“Many of the affected properties are rural, so we are asking landowners to move their equipment, pumps and stock to higher ground.

“I would also like to remind affected communities that significant amounts of rain have fallen in a short period of time, so there is a lot of water across roads, bridges and causeways. If you come across a flooded road, stop, turnaround and find an alternate route.”

The NSW SES currently has 13 Emergency Warnings in place requesting affected residents evacuate their properties. A full list of the current warning locations can be accessed on the NSW SES website.

Assistant Commissioner Storey praised the efforts of the 4000 volunteers who undertook rescues and helped communities through the storm.

“We saw significant rainfall over a short period of time this morning. NSW SES volunteers did an incredible job responding to hundreds of flood rescues, mostly for drivers caught in flash flooding,” Assistant Commissioner Storey said.

“This demonstrates the skill, professionalism and dedication of our volunteers.”

To stay up to date with the latest flood information download the Hazards Near Me App.

If you require storm or flood assistance call NSW SES on 132 500. If the situation is life-threatening, call Triple Zero (000).