The NSW State Emergency Service (SES) is actively monitoring heavy rainfall across the state and has prepositioned flood rescue operators and assets in the Riverina, South West Slopes and northeast regions.
NSW SES crews have responded to more than 460 incidents across the state since yesterday, including four flood rescues in the north east.
While much of the rainfall has been recorded in the north of the state, a weather system is also moving over the southern inland regions and is expected to impact communities overnight and into tomorrow morning.
The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a number of severe weather warnings and has forecast rainfall totals in excess of 100 millimetres across the Riverina, South West Slopes and Broken Hill.
NSW SES Assistant Commissioner Nicole Hogan ESM said while the SES was prepared to respond to any calls for assistance due to the weather, it was also important people monitor conditions and know their risks.
“There is a chance of flash flooding, which can happen quickly and without warning, and we urge communities to not drive, walk or ride through floodwater,” Assistant Commissioner Hogan said.
“We know there are a lot of people travelling at this time of year, and I urge people to be mindful of any risks associated with camping in floodplains or near rivers.
There are currently three watch and act flood warnings, including in the north east where the Bellinger River has reached minor flood levels and isolated properties at Darkwood.
Residents between Coutts Crossing and Glenreagh on the Orara River have also been isolated due to flood waters. Further properties west of the Nymboida River are also cut off due to flooding.
A further four advice flood warnings are in place, including at; Kalang River, Paroo River, Warrego River and the Murray River.
Assistant Commissioner Hogan said NSW SES teams had made contact with the effected residents, who are expected to be isolated for at least 24 hours.
“These residents have informed the NSW SES that they are well prepared and familiar with flooding, but our crews remain in contact with the effected residents and will assist with resupply as needed,” she said.
For emergency help in floods and storms, call the NSW SES on 132 500. In life threatening situations, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.
