FLOOD waters are rising, beaches are closed, roads are cut, and residents in the Nambucca Valley have been warned - the weather system lashing the coast is dangerous and potentially life-threatening.
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The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) is forecasting widespread and intensely torrential rain and strong winds across the region today (Friday) and into the weekend due to a deepening trough sitting over NSW.
Zone commander for the NSW State Emergency Service (SES), chief superintendent Stephen Patterson, said the BoM has forecast widespread rainfall of between 50mm to 200mm across much of the Mid North Coast with isolated dangerous falls of up to 300mm.
Large swell is expected to build across the NSW coastline over the coming days and peak on Saturday, March 20, then slowly drop off over Sunday and into next week.
"Of particular interest is the Bellinger and Kalang River catchment on the Mid North Coast, which has been upgraded to moderate to major flooding in the Flood Watch, while the Paterson and Williams catchments in the Hunter have also been upgraded to moderate to major flooding," Mr Patterson said.
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"Moderate flooding is forecast for the Nambucca and Hastings Rivers, while minor to moderate flooding is forecast for the Orara, Camden Haven, Manning, Gloucester, Wollombi Brook, Lower Hunter River and Wallis Lake.
"With many areas already saturated by a wet storm season so far, we can expect to see some riverine flooding along the coast in the coming days, with the potential for flash flooding given the predicted amounts of rain.
"Knowing this, we are asking people to stay off the roads where possible, and the NSW SES is also warning vulnerable businesses and facilities like schools and nursing homes to know their flood risks and have plans in place to prepare for the forecast rain.
"And if you come across floodwater while driving, never drive, walk, or ride through it - if the road is flooded, forget it.
"It doesn't matter how experienced a driver you think you are, or whether you have a big car, floodwater can wash away roads that once lay underneath, and even contain chemicals and debris."
Surf and swell conditions are expected to be hazardous for coastal activities; NSW Police Force Marine Area Command advise that:
- People should consider staying out of the water and avoid walking near surf-exposed areas.
- Rock fishers should avoid coastal rock platforms exposed to the ocean and seek a safe location that is sheltered from the surf.
- Boaters planning to cross shallow water and ocean bars should consider changing or delaying their voyage.
- Boaters already on the water should carry the appropriate safety equipment and wear a lifejacket.
- Boaters should remember to log on with their local Marine Rescue radio base, via VHF Radio or the Marine Rescue APP, and consider their safety management plan.
