Travellers planning to hit the road this Anzac Day long weekend are being urged to stay vigilant and monitor local weather conditions as widespread rainfall is forecast across the state.
The NSW State Emergency Service (SES) has been responding to unsettled weather conditions this week following heavy rain and thunderstorms along the coast and adjacent ranges.
Minor flooding occurred in low lying areas along the Lake Conjola foreshore yesterday. NSW SES crews have been on the ground providing support to impacted residents.
NSW SES was also activated by NSW Police yesterday to assist three campers on the bank of a fast-flowing river at Wog Wog. Members from Nowra, Braidwood and Bungendore SES Units attended the scene and assisted the campers back to safety.
And at Yadboro, NSW SES has been activated to retrieve 11 bushwalkers who became lost due to heavy rain and fog last night. NSW SES has deployed a specialist bush search and rescue crew and is working with Police Rescue and NSW Ambulance to assist the lost walkers throughout the day. The rescue is expected to take around several hours due to the remote location.
NSW SES Assistant Commissioner Dean Storey said this is a timely reminder that conditions can become dangerous quickly.
“Slow-moving showers and thunderstorms bring a potential risk of flash flooding,” Assistant Commissioner Storey said.
“We have crews on standby 24/7, who are ready to respond to any storm or flood-related incidents, however we implore everyone to make safe and sensible decisions.
“Never drive, walk or play in floodwaters. If you do come across a flooded road or causeway, turn around and find an alternate route.”
Widespread showers and isolated thunderstorms are forecast to persist along to the northern coast into the weekend, while showers and thunderstorms will develop over inland NSW from Anzac Day and extend east over the weekend. Moderate rainfall totals of 20-50mm are expected, but localised heavy rainfall totals may be in excess of 100mm.
Assistant Commissioner Storey urged those going away for the long weekend to plan ahead by monitoring local weather conditions.
“If you are camping near creeks and rivers, it’s important to know your risk. Download the Hazards Near me app and set a watch zone for the area you are travelling to stay across local alerts,” Assistant Commissioner Storey said.
“And before you leave, check the live traffic website to ensure you know the roads are open and passable.”
Riverine flooding is continuing in Western NSW, with a minor to moderate flood warning current for the Warrego River and minor flood warnings for the Paroo, Barwon, Bokhara, Culgoa and Darling Rivers. Some of the forecasted rainfall may fall on inland catchments where flood warnings are current.
The NSW SES is continuing to support affected communities who are experiencing extended isolations from floodwaters.
“We have rescue boats, helicopters and high clearance vehicles dropping off essential items and medication to isolated residents, all you need to do is call us on 132 500,” Assistant Commissioner Storey said.
For the latest information and warnings, download the Hazards Near Me app or visit the NSW SES website.
If you need assistance during a storm or flood, call the NSW SES on 132 500. In a life-threatening emergency, always call Triple Zero (000).
Media enquiries:
NSW SES Media on 1800 067 234