As more heavy rainfall is forecast to fall across the state, the NSW State Emergency Service (SES) is urging people to know their risk and avoid driving through floodwater.
Widespread rain and severe thunderstorms bringing moderate to heavy falls are set to continue across most of the state today, increasing the risk of flash flooding and riverine rises.
NSW SES State Duty Commander, Acting Assistant Commissioner Paul McQueen, said NSW SES teams were well-prepared for flood rescue operations.
“We’re closely monitoring the weather and are prepared to respond swiftly to any emergencies that may arise,” Acting Assistant Commissioner McQueen said.
“With catchments already wet and soil moisture high from rainfall earlier this week, several roads are already inundated by floodwaters so people should avoid unnecessary travel in the rain.”
“Flash flooding can occur rapidly and without warning, posing a significant risk to life and property, so we are urging people to never drive, walk, play or ride in floodwaters.”
Across the state, NSW SES volunteers have responded to more than 584 incidents since the storms began this week.
These have mostly been for fallen trees, branches and leaking roofs.
The NSW SES is standing up additional resources including volunteers and rescue vehicles to ensure we are prepared for storm impacts.
A flood watch is in place for minor flooding for the following catchments:
- Colo River
- Macdonald River
- Castlereagh River
- Macquarie River to Bathurst
- Macquarie River downstream of Burrendong Dam
- Bogan River
- Lachlan River to Cotton’s Weir
- Mandagery Creek
- Tumut River
- Upper Murrumbidgee River to Burrinjuck Dam and Cooma Creek
- Queanbeyan and Molonglo Rivers
A flood watch is also in place for minor to moderate flooding on the Belubula River.
Flooding will be dependent on thunderstorm and rainfall activity which will be closely monitored.
Visit the NSW SES website for the latest information and warnings and download the Hazards Near Me app for up-to-date localised alerts.
Check Live Traffic before embarking on any travel as roads may be damaged and closed.
For assistance from the NSW SES during floods or storms, call 132 500. For life threatening situations call Triple Zero (000).
