Rescuing stranded motorists, donkeys and cows from floodwaters are among the thousands of jobs NSW State Emergency Service (NSW SES) volunteers have attended due to the severe weather that has hit the state's coast over the past few days.
NSW SES Commissioner Carlene York praised the efforts of volunteers, who have responded to more than 2,200 jobs since midnight Saturday (25 July).
"From Newcastle to Sydney, the Illawarra, and down to the Southern Highlands, our volunteers have been on the ground helping local communities," Commissioner York said.
"While we have attended the usual requests for assistance such as removing fallen trees and helping with damaged roofs, we have also been rescuing stranded animals.
"Our Wingecarribee Unit helped save four donkeys at a farm in Burradoo, south of Bowral, while our Kiama Unit helped save three cows and their calves at a farm in Falls Creek.
"Unfortunately, we also received several calls from motorists that had driven across flooded roads and become stranded.
"It is disappointing to see some members of the community putting themselves, and their passengers, at risk.
"I strongly urge motorists to never drive, ride or walk through flood water.
Commissioner York said despite the weather slowly easing, people need to stay vigilant.
"If you do need to drive, please plan your trip by visiting Live Traffic NSW - roads are still wet, and many may be closed due to flooding.
"I also encourage people to move cars from under trees, secure loose items that may blow away in strong winds, and please stay away from fallen powerlines," Commissioner York said.
