NSW SES is continuing to respond to flooding in northern parts of the state, with further evacuations on the Mid North Coast and hundreds of flood rescues taking place.
People in Kempsey CBD, Gladstone and Smithtown have been asked to evacuate, as floodwaters continue to rise.
There are 109 flood warnings are currently in place, with 19 at Emergency Warning level, 57 Watch and Act and 33 at Advice. More than 48,000 people are currently isolated due to floodwaters.
Since midnight, the NSW SES has performed 289 flood rescues, with the majority occurring in Taree, Wingham and Glenthorne. NSW SES is continuing to assist people trapped by floodwaters in Glenthorne, with helicopters, boats, and ground crews deployed to support operations.
More than 40 flood rescue teams are active between the Hunter and Coffs Harbour, with additional NSW SES and interagency personnel on their way to flood affected areas. Five helicopters are supporting, with an additional four expected to arrive during Wednesday.
NSW SES Assistant Commissioner Dean Storey said flood rescue teams have had a busy 24 hours.
“Our volunteers and partner agencies are working around the clock, prioritising rescues and getting help to those who need it most. We’ve seen a large number of calls for assistance, and we are doing everything we can to reach people as quickly and safely as possible,” Assistant Commissioner Storey said.
“There are some streets where floodwaters have cut off every home, and we’re going door-to-door to check on residents – even if they haven’t called for help. If you are trapped and need rescue, please call Triple Zero (000) and make sure we know your situation.”
NSW SES is closely monitoring the flood situation between Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour, with a particular focus on the Kempsey area.
“We are likely to see evacuations continue in these areas, with rainfall continuing to impact saturated catchments,” Assistant Commissioner Storey said.
“We are asking people in these high-risk areas not to wait until it’s too late – know what you will do if you do need to leave, and immediately follow the advice of emergency services.”
Heavy rainfall is forecast to continue across the northern coast through to Thursday or Friday, with daily totals of 250–300mm still possible.
NSW SES crews have been doorknocking in high-risk areas and evacuation centres are open at the following locations:
- Dungog RSL Club
- Club Gloucester
- Club Taree
- Manning Point Bowling Club
- Wingham RSL
- Bulahdelah Golf Club
- Tuncurry Beach Bowling Club
- Kempsey Showground
- Panthers Port Macquarie
To stay up to date with the latest warnings and advice, download the Hazards Near Me app. For evacuation centre locations and more information, visit the NSW SES website.
Visit the Live Traffic NSW website for the latest road closures and traffic conditions.
If you need assistance during floods and storms, call the NSW SES on 132 500. In a life-threatening situation, call Triple Zero (000).
Operational statistics:
Total incidents during this event: 3,787
Total flood rescues during this event: 400