State Emergency Operations Centre open due to forecasted severe weather

The State Emergency Operations Centre (SEOC) at Homebush has been activated ahead of anticipated severe wet weather expected to impact parts of New South Wales.

The SEOC is a central hub, based at Rural Fire Service Headquarters, where experts can monitor the situation in real time and coordinate a whole-of-government response to the expected weather.

The SEOC will be in operation to support the State Emergency Services (SES) as they lead the emergency response to this significant weather event. The team will access live information, intelligence sharing, digital mapping, as well as public information and media broadcasting resources to quickly get critical information to the public.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Police Paul Toole said activating the SEOC puts the state in the best position possible to respond to the oncoming weather.

"The SEOC provides a whole-of-government approach to make sure we're getting resources and personnel into the areas which need it most," Mr Toole said.

"As the severe weather impacts communities across the state, having police and emergency services agencies under the one roof means we can manage the situation to our best ability in real time," Mr Toole said.

State Emergency Operations Controller, Acting Deputy Commissioner Peter Cotter, said police are prepared and ready to respond during this evolving situation.

"As we work closely with the SES and other emergency services, we ask the community to work with us and follow any directions they are given," Deputy Commissioner Cotter said.

"Those in flood-prone areas are urged to avoid essential travel and drive to the conditions on the roads.

"Please obey road closures and remember, if it's flooded, forget it."

Members of the public in flood affected areas should continue to listen to local radio stations, or check the websites listed below.

Those seeking emergency assistance during a flood or storm should call the NSW State Emergency Service on 132 500 or visit their website www.ses.nsw.gov.au.

For the latest weather warnings, please visit the Bureau of Meteorology website: http://www.bom.gov.au/.

For the latest road closures, please visit www.livetraffic.com.au

In all life-threatening situations and emergencies, the public are advised to contact Triple Zero (000).

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