Flood focus – bridges not expected to close – minor to moderate flooding along Hawkesbury and Colo

North Richmond and Windsor bridges are unlikely to close today, despite river level rises, with the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) and the SES, saying river level rises are expected from this morning – Thursday – over the Grose River, South and Eastern creeks, and the Colo River.

Moderate flooding may occur along the Colo River.

Expected river height at North Richmond is likely to be around 3.8m (minor flood level) by tonight with a potential rise to 6m into Friday, which is still below the bridge’s flood level.

Yarramundi bridge could see closure but not likely before Friday and that will depend on how much rain falls in the Grose Valley and upper Blue Mountains, so we’ll keep an eye on that one.

The area around Windsor Bridge may get to 5.8m, which is minor flooding, by Friday morning but again no threat at the moment to the actual bridge going under.

The Colo River at Putty Road is likely to reach the minor flood level (2.70 m) by Thursday evening.

Based on the prediction provided by the Bureau of Meteorology it is expected the following areas will be impacted by floodwaters:

• Upper Colo

• Lower Portland

Caravan parks on the Colo River and lower Hawkesbury from Lower Portland, might be affected by the rising water level.

If you use local bridges and ferries regularly, you need to consider the potential impacts and make travel plans accordingly.

A deepening coastal trough has been producing heavy rainfall over the Nepean and Hawkesbury catchment area since 8:00 pm Wednesday, and is forecast to continue through to Friday. This rain coupled with wet catchment conditions and high dam levels has the potential to produce minor to moderate flooding along the Nepean River, Hawkesbury River and the Colo River from Thursday morning onwards.

River level rises have been observed on the Upper Nepean River, Wollondilly River and the Coxs River and are expected rise further with forecast rain.

Flooding will initially affect low-lying farmland and local roads near the rivers and their tributaries. Farmers should watch the weather and be ready to move pumps, other equipment and livestock away from rising waters.

If you are already a Hawkesbury Post supporter, thank you! Our site is free, relying on our supporters to operate. Independent journalism is more important than ever, please consider contributing.

Click here to see how

Don’t pay so you can read it. Pay so everybody can read it!