Caution urged in NSW with severe weather conditions to continue

NSW Police and emergency services are reminding the community to take care as the wet weather continues to impact large parts of the state.

Moderate to major flood warnings were issued today for the Hawkesbury, Nepean and Colo rivers, on top of a blanket warning for driving conditions across Sydney on Monday and Tuesday.

The predicted conditions have potential to damage homes and property, as well possibly causing trees and powerlines to fall.

The Public Information and Inquiry Centre (PIIC) will continue to support the severe weather operation this week and can be contacted by calling 1800 227 228.

Members of the public can contact the PIIC for general information related to the severe weather and flooding. It will operate on a 24 hours basis until at least 5pm on Friday (26 March 2021).

State Emergency Operations Controller, Deputy Commissioner Gary Worboys, has reminded the public to exercise caution as regions across the state were bracing for further rainfall and many river systems yet to reach their peak.

“Members of the public in the flood affected areas need to continue to heed the warnings and advice of the NSW State Emergency Service and all emergency services,” Deputy Commissioner Worboys said.

“We are preparing and planning to ensure we are ready to respond as the weather event spreads to the western part of the state and the south coast.

“The message from Police and SES has been consistent for the last few days – if possible, avoid going outside and if you do drive, plan ahead – pay attention to RMS message boards for road closures or hazardous conditions, and never drive, ride or walk through floodwater.

“Do not put your life or that of emergency service personnel in danger,” he said.

Members of the public in flood affected areas should continue to listen to local radio stations, or check the websites listed below.

For the latest on road closures members of the community can visit the website www.livetraffic.com or contact their local councils.

For the most up-to-date weather information visit http://www.bom.gov.au

People are also encouraged to register for Register.Find.Reunite (RFS), an online service designed to connect friends and family following a disaster. The public can register at https://register.redcross.org.au.

It should be noted the PIIC inquiry hotline is for general enquiries does not replace the State Emergency Service emergency hotline.

Members of the public seeking emergency assistance during a flood or storm should call the NSW State Emergency Service on 132 500, or visit their website www.ses.nsw.gov.au

For life threatening emergencies, the public are advised to contact Triple Zero.