With the prospect of another La Nina event this summer and the Northern Rivers at risk of another active storm season, the NSW State Emergency Service (NSW SES) is launching a new flood awareness campaign.
Launching on Monday, 1 November, the Floods. The Risk is Real, campaign encourages communities throughout the Northern Rivers – including the Tweed Shire, Byron Shire, Ballina Shire, Lismore, Clarence Valley, Richmond Valley and Kyogle LGAs- to be aware of their risk of floods and take steps to get prepared.
Commander of the service’s Northern Zone, Chief Superintendent Steve Patterson, said communities have experienced flooding before and they will again.
“The Bureau of Meteorology has advised that this Storm Season, which will run from October to March, we are likely to see a repeat of the conditions experienced last season,” Mr Patterson said.
“With the threat of another La Nina event, this will include the risk of increased rainfall and flooding.”
“That’s why it’s really important everyone, whether it be residents, business owners, and even people who travel into the area for work, know their risks and to have a plan.”
Mr Patterson explained the campaign is designed to help people, especially newcomers to the area, know what they can do before a severe weather event strikes.
“As part of the campaign, NSW SES has provided a range of localised resources to offer the best guidance for people who live, work or visit these areas,” Mr Patterson said.
“This includes a with useful information on local risk levels and river gauges in each Northern Rivers Local Government Area.”
NRMA Insurance Executive General Manager Direct Claims, Luke Gallagher, said the insurer was proud to partner with NSW SES on the campaign.
“We hope it will help communities better understand their level of risk and the practical steps they can take now to help protect themselves from flooding, which can ultimately save lives and property,” Mr Gallagher said.
