The NSW State Emergency Service says residents in northern and northwestern NSW should watch weather forecasts and prepare for the impacts of widespread rainfall and flooding, as the organisation puts assets and personnel on standby to respond.
Rainfall is forecast to develop west of Tamworth from today, with moderate 24-hour totals of 30-45 mm likely, and isolated falls of 70mm possible.
Along the North Coast, Central Coast and adjacent ranges, rainfall totals are expected to peak tomorrow (Thursday 21 August), with totals of 25-80mm likely and isolated falls of 110mm possible.
A flood watch has been issued for parts of the Mid North Coast, Hunter and North West Slopes, with minor to moderate flooding likely from late Wednesday and isolated major flooding possible. Minor to moderate flooding is also possible in the Hunter and Colo River catchments from Thursday morning.
NSW SES Assistant Commissioner Colin Malone said, ‘We’re sending aviation assets, high clearance vehicles and crews into the areas likely to be impacted by this rainfall. While we’re prepared for an increased volume of calls for assistance, we ask the community to prepare too.
‘Stay across the latest warnings and advice via the Hazards Near Me app and set up a watch zone for your local area,’ Assistant Commissioner Malone said.
Have a plan
‘It’s also important that everyone has an emergency plan in place, understands their own risk and know where you will go and what you will do if you and your family are impacted.’
With the forecast rainfall and isolated thunderstorms possible, flash flooding is also a significant risk.
‘We’d like to remind people that flash flooding can occur suddenly and without warning,’ Assistant Commissioner Malone said. ‘Please never, under any circumstance, drive through floodwaters. If you come across a flooded road, turn around and find another way.’
NSW SES flood warnings remain in place for communities in Western NSW as floodwaters caused by a coastal low-pressure system earlier this month continue to move downstream. A total of 24 warnings have been issued for communities to stay informed about possible flooding.
‘We will continue to work with the Bureau of Meteorology to monitor this weather system and we will issue further warnings if required,’ Assistant Commissioner Malone said.
For the latest information and warnings, download Hazards Near Me app or visit the NSW SES website. To stay across the latest weather updates, visit the Bureau of Meteorology website.
If you need assistance from the NSW SES, call 132 500. In a life-threatening emergency, always call Triple Zero (000).
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