As parts of Lismore return home with caution, the NSW SES is advising Northern NSW communities to remain vigilant and continue to listen to advice from emergency services.
The NSW SES is actively assessing the situation and undertaking damage assessments in towns that have been flood-affected, as Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred continues to move across the state.
The Emergency Warning for Lismore CBD has been downgraded, and residents have been told they can return with caution. As floodwaters recede, more warnings are expected to be downgraded.
NSW SES Assistant Commissioner Nicole Hogan thanked communities across Northern NSW for listening and heeding warnings but advised people to remain vigilant.
‘Although Alfred will weaken further as it moves inland, now is not the time to become complacent,’ Assistant Commissioner Hogan said.
‘As communities return to their homes, the NSW SES is urging people to make sure their properties are safe and to check for damage and any potential dangers before entering.’
The situation remains dynamic and unpredictable, with widespread rainfall across the North West of the state and renewed river rises possible across several catchments over the coming days.
‘There is still water across roads and rivers could still rise due to forecast widespread rainfall over the coming days, so please never drive, ride or play in floodwaters,’ Assistant Commissioner Hogan said.
The NSW SES is actively assessing conditions in communities across the Clarence Valley, Northern Tablelands and Mid North Coast, with volunteers door knocking homes in Grafton, Ulmurra, Bowraville and the Lower Macleay.
Over the past 24 hours, the NSW SES has responded to 810 incidents, including 21 flood rescues. NSW SES members have assisted impacted communities with damaged homes, fallen trees, downed powerlines and flash flooding.
Multiple major flood warnings remain in effect for the Richmond, Orara, Clarence, and Bellinger rivers.
For the latest information, warnings and updates, please download the Hazards Near Me App or visit the NSW SES website.
If you need assistance during floods and storms call the NSW SES on 132 500 or Triple Zero (000) for life threatening emergencies.
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