As the flood clean-up continues across the state, NSW State Emergency Service (NSW SES) is urging the public to prepare early ahead of moderate to heavy rainfall predicted in coming days.
NSW SES is gearing up for a busy week ahead and is urging communities to take time to prepare before the forecast weather arrives.
The Bureau of Meteorology has advised over the coming days, showers and thunderstorms are expected across northern and eastern New South Wales, which may bring widespread moderate rainfall to some recently flood-impacted areas in New South Wales.
Severe thunderstorms are possible for north-eastern New South Wales over the coming days. Localised heavy rain, gusty winds and large hail are all possible.
With catchments remaining saturated from recent rainfall events, there is an increased risk of flash flooding and renewed river rises. Landslips and fallen trees are also possible due to recent flooding.
In preparation for the predicted weather, NSW SES has activated an incident management team in Grafton. Additional field response capability, including flood rescue and storm damage teams are also being deployed, supported by additional resources from our partner agencies. The Australian Defence Force (ADF) are continuing to provide assistance, including moving over 200,000 sandbags and other equipment to the NSW SES warehouse yesterday (Wednesday 23 March 2022), in readiness for use across the state.
Just as crucially, NSW SES is urging residents in flood-affected and flood-prone areas to remain vigilant and start their own preparations now.
"The devastation caused by the Northern Rivers floods is still being processed by residents, many of whom are still trying to clean up the aftermath. We know that for those people this latest warning will come as very unwelcome news," Acting Commissioner Daniel Austin said.
"These latest floods have proven just how dangerous severe weather events of this kind can be, which is why we are appealing for people to start making a plan now and to be prepared to leave early should they need to evacuate.
"Put together an emergency kit with all your essentials so you have that ready to go. Have a plan about where you'll go and the route you'll take," Mr Austin said.
NSW SES Assistant Commissioner Nicole Hogan said with many areas already saturated, conditions are ripe for flash flooding.
"Unfortunately, in the recent floods, once again we saw flash flooding prove deadly. We are pleading with people to heed our warnings about the dangers associated with driving through floodwaters," Assistant Commissioner Hogan said.
"If you come across floodwater, never drive, walk, or ride through it - turn around and find another way.
"It doesn't matter how experienced a drive you think you are, or whether you have a big car, floodwater can contain hidden debris or even wash away roads that once lay underneath," Ms Hogan said.
