Following unprecedented rainfall, Deniliquin has experienced significant flash flooding, particularly around the west and central areas of town.
There have been reports of up to 190mm of rainfall in some areas in the 24 hour period.
This rainfall has resulted in flooding of the town's lagoon drainage system and adjacent stormwater system, with storm water flooding roads and streets and entering properties.
Many streets have been impacted, and some remain closed due to water over the road, with Council staff and police managing traffic conditions throughout Wednesday.
The State Emergency Service (SES) have set up an Incident Control Centre to manage the incident and along with Rural Fire Service (RFS) and have crews in the field assisting community members.
There have been many reports coming in regarding water in houses and roof damage.
Council crews have deployed pumping equipment at strategic points to assist draining water through the town levee and take pressure off the rest of the system.
The sewerage network has experienced significant issues due to the flooding. These are clearing as the water slowly recedes.
With improved access, Council crews are better able to address residents' issues, and to assess damage to roads, facilities and buildings.
Edward River Council Chief Executive Officer, Phil Stone, says that the rainfall is unprecedented in living memory and that Council is working around the clock to respond to call-outs, monitor water levels and damage, and return systems to working order.
"This is a one in one-hundred year event – the rainfall has been extreme, with much of it falling between 3-8am Wednesday morning.
"As the rain clears, the water is receding, and the drainage is slowly improving. We ask the community to please have patience during this response period; we are working to get services restored as quickly as we possibly can."
Residents are urged to remain vigilant and stay informed by monitoring warnings issued by NSW SES or checking latest weather information from the Bureau of Meteorology.
Council also requests residents to stay off the roads unless necessary during heavy downfalls; and if driving to find an alternative route so that they do not drive through flood waters.
Residents can log flood-related issues with Council's Customer Service Centre by calling 03 5898 3000 or emailing [email protected]
