Whilst the severe weather has eased, we are now in the clean up and recovery phase across the Shire. We have many hard days ahead.
We appreciate that many in our community will be experiencing enormous shock and heartbreak at this time.
Residents are asked to listen to the ABC radio for updates and monitor Byron Shire Council's Emergency Dashboard.
Roads
The biggest emergency response concern is the Upper Main Arm and Upper Wilsons Creek areas. Last night the ADF were able to airlift some people out from Upper Wilsons Creek.
Council staff have continued to inspect roads and assess damage.
Infrastructure Services Director Phil Holloway said due to the extensive damage in many areas, it was unknown at this stage how long the assessments would take to complete.
"It is devastating and when combined with the damage throughout Northern NSW, Councils have an enormous job ahead of restoring communities, roads and access.
"Staff have been out clearing and repairing roads to restore access where we can, but in some cases, we are only managing to get about 500 metres into a road before we come across extreme damage. This is especially the case in the hinterland with failed causeways and landslips," he said.
Council has also requested help from NSW Public Works.
Residents and visitors should continue to limit their vehicle movement and check My Road Info for closed roads and cautions. Do not travel through flood waters.
Englishes Bridge has been washed away and there is severe damage to many causeways and landslips.
