Residents are being urged to make safety their priority as prolonged downpours continue to impact the New England, many being hit again while still trying to clean up after the heavy snow storm and flooding earlier this month.
Gunnedah and Tamworth will again be the epicentre of flooding activity in the region today, with flood advice warnings issued from around Moree north to the border, Narrabri, and Armidale’s Creeklands, while to our east, Port Macquarie reels from over 100ml falling on already saturated country in one day.
https://x.com/NSWSES/status/1958288844597452803
Meteorologist Kathryn Turner said NSW residents can expect rainfall to continue today across the state and South East Queensland, with rain predicted to ease later today, Friday, August 22.
“This winter we’ve experienced higher than average rainfall, with data from Sydney’s Observatory Hill recording the wettest August in 27 years,” Ms Turner said.
“This level of rainfall is unusual for August. What we’re seeing is a complex interaction in the atmosphere, around 5 kilometres above ground, a pocket of cold air and a low-pressure system are combining with a high-pressure system over the Tasman Sea.”
“That high is pushing warm, moisture-laden air towards the east coast, creating ideal conditions for persistent rainy conditions across Sydney and much of NSW.”
Heavy rainfall is predicted to cause further flooding on the Gwydir, Horton, Upper Macintyre, Namoi and Peel rivers, and flood watch warnings have been issued for these areas. See more detail on the NSW SES Hazard Watch app or website.
In more welcome news, the National Disaster Declaration for the snow storm and flooding earlier this month has now been extended to Armidale LGA. Armidale was left off the list in the original announcement because Armidale Regional Council had not submitted the paperwork in time. The NSW Government’s Natural Disaster Declaration now includes Armidale, Dungog, Port Stephens, Singleton and Upper Hunter, in addition to the previously declared LGAs of Gunnedah, Narrabri, Tamworth, Uralla and Walcha.
“Many areas across our state were hit hard by this latest severe weather event,” NSW Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin MP said.
“The damage is widespread and we’re acting quickly to help communities get back on their feet.”
NRMA Insurance Executive General Manager Claims, Luke Gallagher said water is a powerful force and once it enters your home, it can cause tremendous damage.
“If conditions are safe, take steps to protect your property by clearing gutters, downpipes, and drains to prevent water overflow. Arrange a check on the condition of your roof, windows and doors for any leaks and secure with waterproof tarps or plastic sheeting to help keep the rain out,” Mr Gallagher said.
“Rainwater most commonly enters homes through cracked roof tiles, overflowing gutters and gaps around window frames. Rainwater not only damages walls and ceilings, but it can also impact the structural integrity of a building.”
“Cars, motorhomes and other vehicles aren’t immune to rain damage. If you can, park your vehicle undercover or on higher ground. Ensure your windows are shut as rainwater can cause mould, rust, corrosion and damage electrical systems.
“Most importantly, intense rainfall can quickly lead to flash flooding and can have tragic consequences so we urge everyone in affected areas to reconsider travel plans this weekend, stay safe and never drive through floodwaters,” he said.
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