As prolonged flooding continues throughout western and southern NSW, the NSW State Emergency Service (SES) is reminding the community to be prepared and stay flood safe.
For the last 24 hours NSW SES has received 213 requests for assistance and conducted 7 flood rescues for persons trapped in vehicles, animal rescues and medical evacuations across the state. There are currently 63 flood warnings across NSW - 9 at emergency level, 29 at Watch and Act and 28 at advice level.
Forbes continues to be an area of focus, with the Iron Bridge River gauge hitting major flood level yesterday (Friday 13 October 2022). Riverine flooding continues as a result of this, with 2200 residents across the community and 250 dwellings affected.
Access throughout the CBD has been cut off, with NSW SES volunteers providing support through high clearance vehicles (Unimogs).
NSW SES tasked aviation assets are currently being utilised as re-supply to isolated properties for welfare checks and deliveries onto properties unable to access Forbes CBD.
Emergency warnings are still in place for Forbes and Wagga Wagga, with one evacuation centre remaining open at Kyeamba Smith Hall, Wagga Wagga.
NSW SES is also monitoring conditions at Narrandera, with moderate flooding expected later today in into Sunday. Residents are being asked to prepare to evacuate.
NSW SES Southern Zone Commander Benjamin Pickup said it is crucial for Forbes residents to continue to access emergency warnings on the NSW SES website and social media channels for updates as the river systems rise.
"We are seeing the rivers rise and more properties throughout Southern NSW, specifically, Forbes affected by this. As we keep an eye on the dynamic situation, we continue to remind individuals to check for regular updates and to stay prepared," Zone Commander Pickup said.
"Despite clear skies, there is still water moving downstream and it is more important than ever to remind the community that if it's flooded, forget it. Utilising the Live Traffic website prior to your weekend plans is a great way to avoid being stuck in flood water."
NSW SES is also continuing operations in western parts of the state such as Gunnedah, Wee Waa and Warren with some residents isolated due to flood waters.
