NSW State Emergency Service (SES) has deployed more than 750 personnel, rescue assets, high clearance vehicles and flood rescue teams as impacts from heavy rain and water flowing south from Queensland are felt across the state.
NSW SES Assistant Commissioner Sean Kearns said people across the state need to stay informed of the changing conditions.
Northern NSW
Heavy rain is possible tonight, particularly along the Queensland and NSW border. Widespread totals of 20-40 millimetres of rain are likely. There may be isolated falls of up to 80 millimetres.
Assistant Commissioner Kearns said the main risk with this rain will be flash flooding.
“The catchments in this part of the state are already saturated, so any rain we see tonight could lead to flash flooding, which can occur quite quickly,” Assistant Commissioner Kearns said.
“We may also see renewed river rises with minor flooding possible at the Wilson’s River, Richmond River, Clarence River, Bellinger and Kalang Rivers.”
North Western NSW
NSW SES is advising communities to prepare for isolations at Wee Waa and Pilliga, as flooding has started to cut access to roads.
NSW SES volunteers are continuing to complete damage assessments at Narrabri, following significant rain and flooding over the weekend.
Heavy rain has impacted the far North West of the zone with multiple road closures around Moree, Garah and Mungindi. Residents are advised to prepare for minor flooding.
Western NSW
Major flooding is occurring on the Paroo River, and moderate flooding on the Warrego River.
NSW SES is warning some communities to prepare for at least six weeks of isolation as a result of the flooding waters.
Away from riverine flooding, heavy rain has led to isolated properties and roads in the Walgett and Bourke Shires.
“NSW SES is available to assist isolated residents with resupply of essential items including water, food and medicines. Please contact us on 132 500 if you need assistance,” Assistant Commissioner Kearns said.
“We are pleading with people to not take the temptation to drive through flooded and closed roads. They may be dangerous, and you might become stuck and need rescuing.
“If you need resupply, the NSW SES can assist, whether it is by boat or aircraft.
“These flood waters will take some time to move through the state, so we will be working with affected communities to ensure everyone stays informed, and together we will support those isolated residents.
If you are a primary producer and need assistance with livestock management, please call the Agricultural and Animal Services hotline on:1800 814 647.
NSW Coast
Along the NSW Coast, we are still seeing hazardous surf between Byron Bay and Eden, which has led to coastal erosion in some locations.
NSW SES has received 17 reports of properties with coastal erosion on the NSW Central Coast at The Entrance- North.
NSW SES has attended the scene and taped off at-risk locations. Clean up and restoration of these areas will be a matter for the local councils.
Meanwhile, at Dolls Point, at around midnight on Wednesday 2 April, approximately 20 properties were flooded after a high tide combined with large and powerful surf.
“Crews from the Bayside SES unit attended and along with Fire and Rescue personnel provided assistance,” Assistant Commissioner Kearns said.
“There was minor damage with around 30-50 centimetres of water up to power points in some homes.
“Residents were evacuated briefly, however were able to return home once the water receded. NSW SES advises those residents to have a qualified electrician inspect their homes for damage.”
Tonight, there remains a risk of high tides combining with hazardous surf along the coast. The NSW SES is advising people to be vigilant, avoid areas which have been exposed to coastal erosion, and monitor the Hazards Near Me App and BOM app for any warnings.
A minor flood warning has also been issued for Surfside Beach, Batemans Bay, where riverine flooding is expected on high tide tonight.
Media enquiries: NSW SES Media on 1800 067 234