As Ex Tropical Cyclone Alfred continues to weaken and Lismore residents start to return home, the NSW State Emergency Service (NSW SES) urges communities to remain vigilant and not become complacent.
The Emergency Warning for North Lismore and surrounding areas has been downgraded, meaning all Lismore residents who were previously evacuated can now return to their homes with caution.
NSW SES Assistant Commissioner Nicole Hogan said while conditions are improving, residents are reminded to stay alert and follow advice from emergency services.
“While it is encouraging to see some communities start their road to recovery, there are still many communities who remain under evacuation as the threat of flood waters continue,” Assistant Commissioner Hogan said.
“We are encouraging those returning home to make sure their properties are safe and to check for damage and any potential dangers before entering.”
The Bureau of Meteorology forecasts Ex Tropical Cyclone Alfred will continue to weaken as it moves further inland, however widespread heavy rainfall continues to cause major flooding in the Northern Rivers and Mid North Coast.
The NSW SES has 132 warnings current across the state, ranging from Taree to the Queensland border, including 21 emergency warnings.
NSW SES Assistant Commissioner Nicole Hogan said approximately 7,900 people, or 3,400 dwellings are still under emergency warnings, with advice to evacuate in the North East of the State.
“Significant flooding is occurring on the Tweed, Richmond and Clarence Rivers, with emergency warnings advising people in surrounding areas to shelter,” Assistant Commissioner Hogan said.
“The situation remains dynamic and unpredictable, with widespread rainfall and renewed river rises still possible.”
NSW SES continues to receive calls for flood rescues, the majority of which are for people driving through floodwaters.
“We’ve had 21 flood rescues in the last 24 hours, adding unnecessary risks to life,” Assistant Commissioner Hogan said.
“We remind the community to never drive, walk or play in flood water. If you do come across a flooded road, turn around and find an alternative route.”
The NSW SES has responded to nearly 7,000 incidents across the warning areas, including fallen trees, damage to properties and people isolated by major flooding. Resupply efforts are underway in parts of the Northern Rivers, with residents advised to visit local SES Facebook pages or call 132 500 for more information on how to obtain groceries and medication.
More than 3,200 NSW SES members are on the ground, alongside partner agencies and ADF personnel.
Crews are cleaning up residual storm and tree jobs and continuing damage assessments where conditions allow.
The Public Information and Inquiry Centre (PIIC) will close as of 5pm today. For assistance during storms and floods, call the NSW SES on 132 500. In a life-threatening situation, call Triple Zero (000).
For the latest information and warnings, download the Hazards Near Me App or visit ses.nsw.gov.au