Hawkesbury residents urged to be on their guard as weekend rain intensifies

North Richmond could see major flooding from Sunday – BOM

“Prepare for potential evacuations over coming days” – SES

Some Hawkesbury residents have received texts from BOM in the last 30 minutes – issued at 3.47pm – saying major flooding is possible at North Richmond from Sunday.

NSW SES are also urging communities along the Hawkesbury-Nepean catchments to prepare for potential evacuations over the coming days as rain intensifies across Sydney and the Illawarra.

According to the BOM:

North Richmond will likely see the river exceeding minor flood level on Sunday morning, exceed moderate (7.90m) by Sunday evening, and may reach major flood level (10.50m) by Sunday evening into Monday.

At Windsor, minor flood level may be exceeded by Sunday evening, moderate (7.0m) may be exceeded by Monday morning, and it may reach 10m during Monday – with moderate flooding.

Colo River at Putty Rd may exceed minor flood level during Sunday, may reach moderate level (5.70m) overnight Sunday into Monday.

Further rises are possible, says BOM, with forecast rainfall.

The Bureau of Meteorology has forecast intensifying heavy falls between Newcastle and Batemans Bay this weekend, and major flood levels forecast along the Hawkesbury-Nepean catchments.

SES Assistant Commissioner Dean Storey said this afternoon that communities must make preparations for their local flood risk, stay up-to-date with the latest warnings and follow emergency advice.

“Rainfall totals may escalate quickly, and communities must be on their guard to evacuate when asked to do so,” Assistant Commissioner Dean Storey said.

SES volunteers have already responded to about 600 requests across NSW for assistance since 5am this morning, including rescuing people who have driven through flooded roads and assisting holidaymakers isolated by floodwater.

“With up to 300mm of rain forecast in some areas, flash floods and landslips pose a very real risk and people should avoid the roads and drive to conditions,” he said.

“If you had holidays booked, stay away from flood-prone areas, plan your trips carefully and stay up-to-date with warnings,” said the Assistant Commissioner.

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