News

The NSW State Emergency Service (SES) has responded to more than 100 incidents, including seven flood rescues, since midnight as a result of the severe weather and flooding in southeast NSW. 

The majority of flood rescues were for cars stuck in flash flooding in the Shoalhaven region, which received about 100mm of rain overnight. The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a severe weather warning for heavy rainfall which may lead to flash flooding in the Illawarra, South Coast, Metropolitan Sydney and Southern Tablelands districts today and into tomorrow.

Rainfall totals between 100 and 150mm in 24 hours are likely, and isolated totals of 250mm are possible, according to the Bureau forecast.

Riverine flooding is forecast as a result, elevated by wet catchments, full dams and high tides.

NSW SES State Duty Commander, Acting Assistant Commissioner Dallas Burnes said flood rescue operators are ready to respond and assets have been pre-positioned ahead of expected weather impacts.

“Our SES units are prepared to respond to storms and floods in coming days, particularly in the southeast and Sydney regions,” Acting Assistant Commissioner Burnes said

“We’re working closely with the Bureau to identify areas that can expect the greatest impacts this evening and into tomorrow, so we’re well positioned to respond to any incidents.”

The flood risk has been elevated by some of the highest ocean tides of the year, combined with wet catchments and full dams, following several months of above average rainfall in coastal regions.

Acting Assistant Commissioner Dallas Burnes encouraged people to prepare now.

"I’d urge anyone who hasn’t yet downloaded the Hazards Near Me app to do so now. It’s a great way to stay across warnings and information relevant to you,” Acting Assistant Commissioner Burnes said.

“People can prepare their homes before heavy rain comes by cleaning gutters, tying down loose objects such as trampolines, and parking cars away from trees.

And remember, never drive through flood waters. If you come across a flooded road, stop, turn around and find an alternate route.”

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

OPERATIONAL STATISTICS: 24 hours to 12 noon, Thursday, 6 June:

Flood Rescues: 7

Incidents statewide: 156

By zone: Metro - 20

South Eastern - 117

Northern - 6

North Eastern - 4

Southern - 4

North Western - 2

Western - 2