The NSW SES has just issued an update predicting moderate to major flooring on the Wilsons River at Lismore.
The Bureau of Meteorology advises the Wilsons River at Lismore (AHD) is currently at 3.23 metres and rising, below the minor flood level (4.20 m).
The Wilsons River at Lismore (AHD) is expected to exceed the minor flood level (4.20 m) Friday morning.The river level is likely to exceed the moderate flood level (7.20 m) Friday evening and may reach the major flood level (9.70 m) Saturday morning, with forecast rainfall.
Based on the predictions from the Bureau of Meteorology, rainfall associated with Tropical Cyclone Alfred may cause rapid river rises and extensive flooding.
Moderate to heavy rainfall associated with Tropical Cyclone Alfred has been recorded across the Wilsons River catchment since Wednesday morning and is expected to intensify from Friday afternoon.
Forecast heavy to intense rainfall has the potential to cause dangerous and rapid riverlevel rises along the Wilsons River and its tributaries.Be advised there is current Emergency Warnings – Evacuate now for Lismore CBD, North Lismore,South Lismore, North Lismore and East Lismore.
Based on predictions from the Bureau of Meteorology, the following areas may be impacted by dangerous floodwaters:
- Low-lying roads, causeways and bridges.
- Low-lying farming and rural areas.
- Low-lying areas along the river.
What you need to do
If you have a Home or Business Emergency Plan, follow it. Otherwise, have a conversation and plan for what you will do and take with you if you need to evacuate.
Consider the consequences of road and bridge closures and water over roads and makealternate arrangements for work, children, and travel. Obey all signs about road closures and instructions from emergency services.
Never drive, walk, ride through, play or swim in floodwater – it is dangerous, toxic, and mayvoid your car insurance. If it’s flooded, forget it. Fines may apply. Avoid storm drains and pipes, ditches, ravines, creeks, and rivers.
People in areas likely to be impacted by flooding should raise their assets, including waste and chemical containers above expected flood heights.
If you are likely to be isolated due to flooding, stock up on essential items now. People working or camping along the river should monitor river heights and be prepared to relocate to higher ground. Farmers should consider moving pumps and farm equipment to higher ground.
Companion animals and livestock should be relocated to higher ground that will not become an island.
The safest option is to evacuate as early as possible to avoid additional hazards. Do not wait until the last minute.
When you evacuate, register at Register.Find.Reunite https://register.redcross.org.au/ so that your friends, family and emergency services can be informed that you are safe.
More information
- Listen to your local ABC radio station which can be found at reception.abc.net.au.
- Download the Hazards Near Me app and set your watch zones to get warning information for your areas.
- Follow the SES on social media @NSWSES or visit their website at www.ses.nsw.gov.au.
- Learn about your risk at www.ses.nsw.gov.au/knowyourrisk.
- Check latest weather, warnings, rainfall and river heights at www.bom.gov.au/nsw/.
- Check road closures at www.livetraffic.com.au or 132 701 or your local Council.
- Contact your Local Land Services Office for rural animal and livestock assistance at lls.nsw.gov.au or call 1300 795 299.
- For information on temporary school closures in your area, check www.education.nsw.gov.au/schooling/school-operational-status.
For emergency assistance during a flood, storm or tsunami, call the NSW SES on 132 500. In a life-threatening emergency, call Triple Zero (000).
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