News

Heavy rain and damaging winds continue to impact parts of the Northern Rivers and North Coast throughout Saturday, with the NSW State Emergency Service (SES) responding to more than 200 calls for help.

The majority of calls have been for fallen trees, property damage, leaking roofs and storm and flood related incidents.

Photo: NSW SES Ballina Unit at Peaces Creek Road - tree down

Two flood rescues have occurred today. The first was at Uki where a vehicle towing a caravan became stuck in a flooded causeway. Meanwhile at Cougal, a multi-agency operation involving NSW SES, NSW Police, Fire and Rescue NSW, NSW Ambulance and NSW Rural Fire Service was launched after a vehicle became trapped with two adults and a child stuck in rising waters. All occupants are now safe and well.

Photo: Flood rescue at Gradeys Creek

NSW SES Incident Controller, Superintendent Scott McLennan is urging people to stay vigilant as the severe weather is expected to continue into this evening, with minor riverine and flash flooding possible in many saturated catchments overnight and into Sunday.

“NSW SES is asking residents in low lying areas along the Tweed, Wilsons, Richmond, Orara and Bellinger rivers to prepare for minor flooding, which could result in some isolations,” Superintendent McLennan said.

“Minor flooding and flash flooding may also occur further south around Coffs Harbour, Wooli Creek and Nambucca following the heavy rain today.”

“We have additional flood rescue specialists, aviation assets and high clearance vehicles on standby.“I want to remind residents and holidaymakers traveling through the Northern Rivers, Clarence Valley and Coffs Coast that there is a continued risk of flash flooding, and very strong winds, making the journey difficult, if you come across a flooded road, turn around and find an alternate route.

“With many coastal villages and holiday locations currently experiencing strong wind gusts, coastal erosion, and heavy rainfall, visitors and holiday makers are advised to consider their movements, and their preparations. It may be better to take an extra day to prepare and delay their trips, rather than setting up in adverse conditions.”

The NSW SES is reminding people in the impacted areas to download the Hazards Near Me app and set up local watch zones to stay across the latest warnings and information.

For emergency assistance during a flood, storm or tsunami, call NSW SES on 132 500. In a life-threatening emergency, call Triple Zero (000).