THE NSW State Emergency Service has deployed more than 750 personnel, rescue assets, high clearance vehicles and flood rescue teams as impacts from heavy rain and water flowing south from Queensland are felt across the state.
Heavy rain has impacted the far north-west of the zone with multiple road closures around Moree, Garah and Mungindi. Residents are advised to prepare for minor flooding.
NSW SES is advising communities to prepare for isolations at Wee Waa and Pilliga, as flooding has started to cut access to roads.
NSW SES volunteers are continuing to complete damage assessments at Narrabri, following significant rain and flooding over the weekend.
Major flooding is occurring on the Paroo River, and moderate flooding on the Warrego River.
NSW SES is warning some communities to prepare for at least six weeks of isolation as a result of the flooding waters.
Away from riverine flooding, heavy rain has led to isolated properties and roads in the Walgett and Bourke Shires.
NSW SES Assistant Commissioner Sean Kearns said people across the state need to stay informed of the changing conditions.
“NSW SES is available to assist isolated residents with resupply of essential items including water, food and medicines. Please contact us on 132 500 if you need assistance,” Mr Kearns said.
“We are pleading with people to not take the temptation to drive through flooded and closed roads. They may be dangerous, and you might become stuck and need rescuing.
“If you need resupply, the NSW SES can assist, whether it is by boat or aircraft.
“These flood waters will take some time to move through the state, so we will be working with affected communities to ensure everyone stays informed, and together we will support those isolated residents.
Primary producers needing assistance with livestock management, are asked to call the Agricultural and Animal Services hotline on 1800 814647.
Flood Safety Advice:
In life threatening emergencies, call 000 (triple zero) immediately. If you require rescue, assistance to evacuate or other emergency help, ring NSW SES on 132 500;
Avoid drowning. Stay out of rising water, seek refuge in the highest available place;
Prevent damage to your vehicle. Move it under cover, away from areas likely to flood;
Avoid being swept away. Stay out of fast-flowing creeks and storm drains; or
Never drive, ride or walk through flood water. Flood water can be deceptive and dangerous.
For more emergency information, advice, and access to the latest river heights and rainfall observations and forecasts:
NSW SES: www.ses.nsw.gov.au
RMS Live Traffic: www.livetraffic.com
Latest River Heights and Rainfall Observations: www.bom.gov.au/nsw/flood/northwest.shtml
Latest NSW Warnings: www.bom.gov.au/nsw/warnings/
Rainfall Forecasts: www.bom.gov.au/australia/meteye/
BOM NSW Twitter: www.twitter.com/BOM_NSW
IF IT’S FLOODED, FORGET IT!
