URGENT UPDATE: Residents in parts of New South Wales are bracing for significant flooding, with the NSW State Emergency Service (SES) issuing 42 flood alerts as of 7 AM today. Authorities warn that rising floodwaters could isolate communities from essential services and emergency assistance.
Major flood alerts stretch from Wollongong on the south coast to Goondwindi at the Queensland-NSW border. Specific warnings for residents in Gunnedah, particularly near Talibah Flats, Old Blue Vale Rd, and Kelvin Rd, urge them to “prepare to isolate.” The SES cautions that severe flooding risks are expected to peak by Friday evening, making immediate preparations critical.
“You should monitor the situation and prepare to be isolated by floodwater,” the SES states. “Consider the effects isolation will have on family, work, and educational commitments. You may be trapped without power, water, and other essential services, and it may be too dangerous for NSW SES to rescue you.”
Over the past 48 hours, isolated areas across the state have received over 200 mm of rain. The Central Coast, North West Slopes, and Hunter and Illawarra regions are among the hardest hit. Notably, Sydney has recorded its wettest August in 27 years, with rainfall exceeding 350 mm this month—approximately four times the city’s average monthly total.
As emergency responders navigate the crisis, the NSW SES has managed over 600 incidents and conducted at least 10 flood rescues since the onset of this severe weather event. Floodwaters have also disrupted major roads, including Menangle Rd in Sydney and the Newell Highway in northern NSW.
Residents are urged to stay updated as conditions evolve. The SES emphasizes the importance of readiness as floodwaters continue to rise, impacting lives and livelihoods. Further updates will follow as this situation develops.
Stay tuned for more critical information as authorities monitor the situation closely.
