NSW Mid North Coast braces for flash flooding with deluge of rain on the way
Much of NSW’s Mid North Coast is being warned to brace for flash flooding as a coastal trough threatens to dump hundreds of millimetres of rain.
The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a severe weather warning for people in the Mid North Coast district, predicting heavy falls on Thursday morning for Coffs Harbour, Port Macquarie, Taree, Woolgoolga, Sawtell, Bellingen and Dorrigo.
Widespread falls of 150mm to 300mm are expected, with further rainfall expected as far south as Sydney and the Illawarra.
“Heavy rain is developing over eastern NSW and will likely bring moderate-to-major flooding over the coming days,” Joel Pippard, meteorologist at Weatherzone, advises.
“Widespread falls of 150-300mm are expected over the Northern Rivers, Mid North Coast, Hunter, Sydney, and Illawarra regions between now and Sunday.
“Flood watches and severe weather warnings for heavy rain have been issued for the Mid North Coast and will likely cover a broader area over the coming days.”
The State Emergency Service (SES) warns people not to drive, ride or walk through floodwater.
“If you are trapped by flash flooding, seek refuge in the highest available place and ring 000 if you need rescue,” the SES warns.
“Be aware that run-off from rainfall in fire-affected areas may behave differently and be more rapid. It may also contain debris such as ash, soil, trees and rocks.”
