Widespread rainfall forecast for northern NSW this week could cause flash flooding and renewed riverine rises, as the NSW State Emergency Service (SES) urges communities to prepare.
The Bureau of Meteorology is forecasting rainfall to increase across the central and northern coast from Wednesday, with moderate to heavy 24-hour rainfall totals of 40-90mm likely and isolated falls exceeding 120mm possible. In the northwest of the state, rainfall totals of 20-50mm are forecast, with isolated falls exceeding 80mm possible.
This could cause minor to moderate flooding for coastal catchments in parts of the Mid North Coast, Northern Rivers and North West Slopes. An initial flood watch has been issued for the Orara, Bellinger, Nambucca, Macleay, Hastings, Peel and Namoi Rivers.
NSW SES Assistant Commissioner Colin Malone said while there was some degree of uncertainty in the location of the heaviest rainfall, we are expecting rivers and creeks to rise.
"We know that catchments in northern NSW are saturated from recent weather events and will respond quickly to this rainfall," Assistant Commissioner Malone said.
"Thunderstorms could also cause localised heavy falls, bringing the risk of flash flooding.
"We're working closely with the Bureau of Meteorology to monitor the development of this weather system, and we will issue any warnings if required."
This forecast comes as communities in Western NSW continue to experience flooding caused by a coastal low-pressure system earlier this month.
Flood warnings remain in place for residents of Goangra, Bugilbone, Come By Chance, Walgett and surrounds. The main flood peak on the Namoi River is near Goangra and will approach the Barwon River at Walgett over the coming days as floodwaters move downstream. Minor flooding at Walgett is possible from Wednesday.
Assistant Commissioner Malone said with further severe weather on the way, now is not the time to become complacent.
"The NSW SES is prepared to respond to an increase in calls for assistance, but there are simple steps the community can take to be prepared as well," Assistant Commissioner Malone said.
"Download the Hazards Near Me app and set up a watch zone for your local neighbourhood, so you are alerted with the latest warnings and advice.
"It's important that everyone understands their own flood risk and has an emergency plan in place.
"That means knowing where you will go and what you will do if flooding affects you and your family."
For the latest information and warnings, download Hazards Near Me app or visit the NSW SES website. To stay across the latest weather updates, visit the Bureau of Meteorology website.
If you need assistance from the NSW SES, call 132 500. In a life-threatening emergency, always call Triple Zero (000).
