ONE MONTH IN, STORM SEASON REMAINS RELENTLESS
As the first month of storm season comes to an end, the wet weather isn’t relenting any time soon, with further rain and renewed river rises forecast next week.
Since the start of October, NSW SES volunteers have responded to 7,473 requests for assistance, with the majority of work helping communities with sandbagging, resupply and evacuation assistance.
Volunteers will have busy weeks ahead with the Bureau of Meteorology forecasting widespread storms across inland and coastal NSW starting from Monday and moving across the state on Tuesday and Wednesday.
Chief Superintendent Ken Murphy said while rain is expected to be moderate, communities need to monitor the situation and follow the advice of emergency services, as the situation can change quickly.
“With eight rivers currently at major level across the state, the forecast rain will exacerbate river conditions in locations already affected by major flooding, particularly across southern and western NSW,” Chief Superintendent Murphy said.
“There are six emergency warnings in place for Murray River communities, with more emergency warnings likely to be issued next week for areas west of the Great Dividing Range.”
With the soil already saturated there is an increased likelihood of trees falling due to the strong winds, the NSW SES urges members of the public to prepare now.
“Isolated storms can create dangerous conditions, including falling trees and flash flooding, so we encourage people to repair roofs, tie down loose items and park vehicles away from trees now to reduce your risk,” Chief Superintendent Murphy said.
The Bureau has advised that snowfall is likely across the southern Alps on Wednesday, with unseasonable snowfall possibly extending further north over the Central Tablelands and as far north as Barrington Tops.
“Snowfall can result in slippery and hazardous driving conditions; members of the public are urged to slow down and drive to the conditions” Chief Superintendent Murphy said.
Throughout October, NSW SES members have responded to 258 flood rescues, and have sadly witnessed dangerous situations where people have driven or played in floodwater.
“Entering floodwater not only puts yourself at risk, but your passengers and our volunteers who are called to rescue you,” Chief Superintendent Murphy said.
Regular storms and flooding will continue throughout November until at least the end of the year, so we ask communities, commuters, and travellers to plan ahead, understand the risk of flooding in your local area, and to never drive through floodwater.
“If you do come across a flooded road – stop, turn around and find a safe alternative. There’s always another way.”
For emergency help in floods and storms, call the NSW SES on 132 500. In life threatening situations, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.
