NSW SES Evacuation Warning for communities along the Lower Macleay
Issued at: 6pm Tuesday 29 March
NSW SES is advising residents and visitors in the Lower Macleay to take action now to prepare for possible flood impacts.
Residents in of the following locations should prepare now to evacuate should conditions deteriorate.
These areas include:
• Belmore River
• Smithtown
• Gladstone
• Kinchela
• Jerseyville
• Rainbow Reach
• Summer Island
• Low lying properties on the Lower Macleay floodplain
People in these areas need to closely monitor weather and road closures and make informed decisions early based on your individual circumstances.
Residents should monitor the situation and be prepared to evacuate if you are instructed to do so.
A Flood Evacuation Order will be issued by the NSW SES if evacuations are required.
Where to go if evacuation is required
Wherever possible, people should go and stay with family or friends, or make other accommodation arrangements. If you are unable to, an evacuation centre location will be notified in the Evacuation Order when issued.
What we are expecting
Low lying properties in these locations may experience impacts due to flash flooding.
Storm and flood impacts may interrupt essential services such as electricity, phones, internet, water and sewerage.
Once floodwater begins inundating the area, road access may be cut. If you remain in the area after this time, you may become trapped and it may be too dangerous for NSW SES to rescue you.
What you need to do
Simple things you can do now:
• Lift possessions and important items above the predicted flood height.
• Take pets, essential items, warm clothes, medicines, insurance documents and valuables with you.
• Leave as early as possible to avoid restricted roads. • Share this information with family, friends and neighbours and help others where possible
People in areas likely to be impacted by flooding should take the following actions:
• Do not drive, ride or walk through flood water
• Consider the impact of road closures and flood isolation on work, family and educational commitments
• Monitor emergency warnings and severe weather updates on local ABC radio, NSW SES Facebook Page and Bureau of Meteorology website
• If your property is at risk of inundation raise moveable items, such as furniture, as high as possible onto benches or tables, placing electrical items on top
• If advised by an emergency services officer to evacuate, do so without delay
• Secure outside belongings and, before leaving, turn off the power, water and take essential medicines and clothes with you
• Farmers should move machinery, livestock, pumps and fodder to flood free ground
