Flash Floods

Flash flooding happens when too much rain falls and can’t be absorbed by the ground.

It can happen within a few minutes, but usually within a few hours and can occur far away from where the rain fell. There may be little to no warning time during a flash flood.

The quick rise and uncertain depths of flash floods can hide debris making them very dangerous. They can sweep away people and cars, tear out trees and destroy roads, buildings and other structures.

Knowing your local flash flood risk will help you to plan, prepare, respond and recover better.

During flash flooding, you may need to rely on yourself, family, friends or neighbours. NSW SES may not be able to get to you immediately or it may be too dangerous to rescue you.

Knowing your flash flood risk will help you plan, prepare, respond and recover better.

When flash flooding is likely the best action to take is to leave low-lying areas (evacuation) well before flooding begins, but only if it is safe to do so.

Know your risk

• If you live or work close to a river, water course, creek, drain, culvert or in a low-lying area, you may be at higher risk from flash floods even if you have never experienced them before.
• Flash floods can be several metres deep, rise quickly and move fast.
• Talk with neighbours, community members, local groups and organisations about the local flash flood risks.
• Know when your property and local roads are affected by flash floods. Identify the key triggers and actions you need to do, including safe roads to take if you need to leave.
  
  

Know the warnings

• The NSW SES will issue warning information through the Australian Warning System, including Advice, Watch and Act and Emergency Warnings for storms that can include the possibility of flash flooding.
• Download the Hazards Near Me App and set your watch zones to get these warnings.
• Monitor the Bureau of Meteorology website for Severe Weather and Severe Thunderstorm Warnings.
• You may not always receive an official warning for flash floods. The natural signs can include rushing or pooling water and heavy and prolonged rainfall.

Act early

• When flash flooding is likely the best action to take is to leave low-lying homes and businesses (evacuation) well before flooding begins, but only if it is safe to do so.
• Bring children indoors during severe weather to avoid drains, culverts or creeks as rushing and pooling water can make these dangerous places.

Make safe decisions

• Leave early, before roads are closed by flash flooding and go to your safe place.
• If you are trapped by rising flash floods, seek refuge in the highest part of a sturdy building or on high ground. Keep moving to stay above the flood height. Avoid roof cavities. Stay there and call triple zero (000) if you need rescue. This is a lifethreatening situation.
• If you are trapped in your car by rising flash floods, seek refuge in the safest location. This may be in your car, on the roof or getting to higher ground. Keep moving to stay above the flood height. Call triple zero (000). This is a lifethreatening situation.
• Turn around at flash flooded roads. Find a safer way to go.

Stay safe

• After flash floods, ensure the structural stability of your property before entering. Check for damage to windows, walls and the roof and be especially cautious of potential poisons, including asbestos.

Look out for each other

• Get to know your neighbours. Helping each other before, during and after disasters will help communities prepare, respond and recover better.
• Share flash flood risk information with your family, friends and neighbours.
• Support someone who may require further assistance.

Call the NSW SES on 132 500 if you need assistance during a flood, storm or tsunami. In a life-threatening emergency, call 000 (triple zero).

NSW SES Flash FloodSafe Guide