As floodwaters recede in some areas, NSW SES members have commenced damage assessments in the north of the state today, Tuesday 25 October.
The Bureau of Meteorology has forecast widespread intense rain to ease, with warnings being downgraded today in some locations on the East Coast.
Deputy Commissioner Daniel Austin said NSW SES members had conducted 452 damage assessments primarily in Moree and Gunnedah, and had responded to 559 requests for assistance over the past 24 hours (3pm-3pm).
“Despite the severe weather easing over the next couple of days, the flood threat remains in many areas across the state as major flood peaks moving downstream and road closures continue,” Deputy Commissioner Austin said.
“Storms are still possible and can cause flash flooding, so we ask drivers to take care as any amount of rainfall can create a dangerous situation with saturated catchments.”
There are 126 flood warnings current this afternoon (Tuesday, 25 October), including 24 emergency warnings for parts of the Gwydir, Namoi and Murray Rivers.
“With 7000 people still affected by emergency warnings, NSW SES members are working with emergency service partners to help residents in western and south-western parts of the state who are isolated by floodwater including at Moree, Gunnedah and Moama,” he said.
“This is in addition to major flooding continuing along the Macquarie, Bogan, Lachlan, Barwon, Darling and Macintyre Rivers.
“With the situation rapidly changing, we ask members of the community to follow directions from emergency services, follow road signs and never enter floodwater.”
Check the NSW SES website to see which advice applies to you, and take care if returning to a flood-affected area as damage can be widespread.
What you need to do:
- Drive slowly, plan your route carefully to avoid any flooded roads and allow extra travel time. Damage to roads and buildings caused by flooding may still exist in your area.
- Be aware of road hazards including mud and debris.
- Remain vigilant as there could still be water in low lying areas.
- Take care as local roads could still have water over them.
- Check in on your neighbours if safe to do so.
- Check on animals and livestock.
- If you are isolated and require resupply, contact NSW SES on 132 500.
If your property has been affected by floodwater:
- Make sure your property is safe before entering. Check for damage to windows, walls and the roof and be careful of potential dangers including asbestos.
- Make sure the electricity and gas are turned off before going inside. Use a torch to carry out inspections inside buildings.
- If power points, electrical equipment, appliances or electrical hot water systems have been exposed to floodwater or are water damaged in any way, they must be inspected by a qualified electrician before use.
- Gas appliances and gas bottles that have been exposed to floodwater should be inspected for safety before use.
- Wear suitable protective clothing, including boots and gloves when cleaning up.
- Sandbags that have been in contact with floodwater need to be thrown away. Sturdy gloves should be worn when handling wet sandbags as they can contain chemicals, waste, and diseases.
- Be aware of any slip, trip or fall hazards.
- Never eat food which has been in contact with floodwater.
- Only use clean utensils and personal items.
