With up to 100mm of rainfall predicted over the next three days, the NSW State Emergency Service (SES) is putting its assets and personnel on standby.
The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) forecasts wet weather will develop west of Tamworth from Wednesday 20 August, with moderate 24-hour totals of 30-45mm likely, and isolated falls of 70mm possible.
Along the northern and Central Coast and adjacent ranges, it’s expected to peak on Thursday 21 August.
That includes totals of 25-80mm and isolated falls of 110mm.
A flood watch has been issued for parts of the Mid-North Coast, Hunter and North-West Slopes, too.
Minor-to-moderate flooding is also likely in the Hunter and Colo River catchments from Thursday morning.
NSW SES Assistant Commissioner Colin Malone said the organisation was ready to respond.
“We’re sending aviation assets, high clearance vehicles and crews into the areas likely to be impacted by this rainfall,” he stated.
“While we’re prepared for an increased volume of calls for assistance, we ask the community to prepare as well.
“Stay across the latest warnings and advice via the Hazards Near Me app and set up a watch zone for your local area.
“It’s also important that everyone has an emergency plan in place, understands their own risk and know where you will go and what you will do if you and your family are impacted.”
With the forecast rainfall and isolated thunderstorms possible, flash flooding is also a significant danger.
“We’d like to remind people that it can occur suddenly and without warning,” Assistant Commissioner Malone said.
“Please never, under any circumstance, drive through floodwaters.
“If you come across a flooded road, turn around and find another way.
“We will continue to work with the Bureau of Meteorology to monitor this weather system and we will issue further warnings if required.”
For the latest information and warnings, download Hazards Near Me app or visit the NSW SES website.
To stay across the latest weather updates, visit the Bureau of Meteorology website.
If you need assistance from the NSW SES, phone 132 500.
In a life-threatening emergency, always contact Triple Zero (000).
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