Crews have responded to more than 700 incidents overnight, including 36 flood rescues, as heavy rain led to a surge in calls to the NSW SES.
There was a large volume of requests in the Sydney metropolitan area, as the city recorded rainfall totals up to 120mm. NSW SES teams responded to around 30 flood rescues in a 50-minute period, including the rescue of 30 passengers from a light rail which became stuck on Anzac Parade. Elsewhere in NSW crews were kept busy in parts of the Hunter, Illawarra and South Coast, Riverina and Central West.
With rain and wind easing across the state today, NSW SES members are focussing on residual storm-related and clean up jobs.
Minor flooding is occurring in the northwest plains, central tablelands, and Sydney, and is expected to continue into Friday. Minor flooding is possible at Sussex Inlet on the high tide Thursday evening and Friday morning.
Hazardous surf conditions caused by a large and powerful swell are expected to continue today and decrease gradually on Friday.
NSW SES Assistant Commissioner Dean Storey urged the community to remain vigilant and stay away from fallen trees and damaged properties.
"Our members and emergency service partners have been busy overnight, responding to flood rescues, fallen trees and property damage," Assistant Commissioner Storey said.
"We ask the community to be extra cautious on roads and stay well clear of any hazards, as the clean up continues."
With the Bureau of Meteorology forecasting above average rainfall across much of Eastern Australia for September to November, Assistant Commissioner Storey advised residents to stay alert and prepared.
"With weather conditions likely to improve over the weekend, it will be a great time to attend to issues around your homes.
"This is just the beginning of what we are expecting to be a very busy storm season and it's important people take simple steps to prepare. Trim trees around your property, clear your gutters and make sure you have a plan in place should severe weather impact you."
Download the Hazards Near Me App to stay across the latest warnings and advice or visit the NSW SES website.
If you need assistance during storms and floods, call the NSW SES on 132 500. In a life-threatening emergency, always call Triple Zero (000).
