Editor’s note: VNR of presser with NSW SES Commissioner Mike Wassing, NSW RFS Deputy Commissioner Peter McKechnie and Fire and Rescue NSW Assistant Commissioner Michael Morris and OLAY from Easter Show available here: https://spaces.hightail.com/space/g8rSwrtc1V
As families hit the road for the school holidays, the NSW State Emergency Service (SES) is reminding people to take precautions, drive safely and plan ahead if they’re camping near rivers or creeks.
While clear days are forecast across much of the state this week, significant flooding is occurring in Western NSW and coastal river catchments will continue to respond quickly to any rainfall during the school holidays.
NSW SES Commissioner, Mike Wassing AFSM reminded people to know their risk if they planned on camping near rivers and creeks these school holidays.
“Camping near rivers and creeks is appealing, but it can be dangerous during storms and heavy rain, so we want people to monitor the conditions and take precautions ahead of time,” he said.
“To stay across the latest information, forecasts and warnings in your hometown and the town you may be travelling to in NSW, download the Hazards Near Me app and create watch zones for the location you’re in.
“By setting a watch zone, you will be alerted to any forecast weather or riverine rises so you can act appropriately and keep yourself and your families safe.”
Commissioner Wassing said major flooding was still occurring in Western NSW and urged people to not drive through floodwater if they came across a flooded road or causeway.
“If you come across a flooded road, or get isolated by floodwater, never drive, walk or ride in floodwater. Find an alternate route,” he said.
“We will continue to resupply communities isolated by floodwaters on the Paroo River with essential items and medication, all you need to do is call us on 132 500.”
People traveling during the holiday season are advised to check both the Live Traffic website and the local council websites for any road closures and to plan their trips.
The NSW SES has had a particularly busy storm season, with about 34,000 calls for assistance across the state from October 1, 2024, to March 31, 2025.
“We’ve had significant storm and flood events in all areas of the state in recent months, including Tropical Cyclone Alfred, a hailstorm in Harden, storm damage in the Riverina, particularly in Yenda, and now major flooding in Western NSW communities,” Commissioner Wassing said.
“Our dedicated members will continue to help their local communities and deploy to other parts of NSW to support with the response to flooding in rural and remote communities, which will continue for some weeks yet.”
Media enquiries:
NSW SES Media on 1800 067 234