ISSUED 1pm WEDNESDAY 30 MARCH 2022
Low lying properties on the Lower Macleay: Evacuate by 6pm
NSW SES is directing people within low lying properties on the Lower Macleay to evacuate the high danger area.
These areas include:
• Belmore River
• Smithtown
• Gladstone
• Kinchela
• Jerseyville
• Rainbow Reach
• Summer Island
• Maria River Road
• Low lying properties on the Lower Macleay floodplain
South West Rocks, Hat Head and Crescent Head may become isolated by key road closures from Wednesday evening.
Why we are directing people to evacuate.
The river level may exceed the moderate flood level (5.70 metres) overnight Wednesday into Thursday and may reach around 6.00 metres Thursday morning, with moderate flooding. Further rises are possible.
Once floodwater exceeds 5.7 metres on the Kempsey gauge key roads will begin to close.
Once flood water begins inundating the area road access water, sewerage, power, phones and internet may be lost. If you remain in the area you will be trapped and it may be too dangerous for SES to rescue you.
Where to go
Wherever possible, people should go and stay with family or friends, or make other accommodation arrangements.
If you are unable to, an evacuation centre has been set up at the following.
Kempsey Showground
19 Sea Street
Kempsey
What we are expecting
Once flood water begins inundating the area, road access, water, sewerage, power, phones and internet may be lost.
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
Low lying properties should
- 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.
