RETURN WITH CAUTION Lower Macleay

Published on 24 September 2022

Issued: 8:00am Saturday 24 September

The NSW SES advises you that the threat of moderate flooding for the Lower Macleay River has subsided and as such the threat has reduced in the following areas:

South West Rocks
Crescent Head
Hat Head
Maria River Road
Camping grounds at Delicate Nobby, Point Plomer and Racecourse

Low lying areas of the following roads

South West Rocks Road
Smithtown Road
Plummers Lane

What you need to do:

Drive slowly, plan your route carefully to avoid any flooded roads and allow extra travel time. Damage to roads, bridges or buildings caused by flooding and landslip may still exist in your area.

Be aware of road hazards including mud and debris.

Remain vigilant as there could still be water in low lying areas.

Take care as local roads could still have water over them.

Check in on your neighbours if safe to do so.

Check on animals and livestock.

If your property has been affected by floodwater

Make sure your property is safe before entering. Check for damage to windows, walls and the roof and be careful of potential dangers including asbestos.

Make sure the electricity and gas are turned off before going inside. Use a torch to carry out inspections inside buildings.

If power points, electrical equipment, appliances or electrical hot water systems have been exposed to floodwater or are water damaged in any way, they must be inspected by a qualified electrician before use.

Gas appliances and gas bottles that have been exposed to floodwater should be inspected for safety before use.

Wear suitable protective clothing, including boots and gloves when cleaning up.

Sandbags that have been in contact with floodwater need to be thrown away. Sturdy gloves should be worn when handling wet sandbags as they can contain chemicals, waste, and diseases.

Be aware of any slip, trip or fall hazards

Never eat food which has been in contact with floodwater

Only use clean utensils and personal items

For more information:

Listen to your local ABC radio station which can be found at www.reception.abc.net.au.

Learn about your risk at www.ses.nsw.gov.au/your-risk/

Check latest weather, warnings, rainfall and river heights at www.bom.gov.au/nsw/

Check road closures at www.livetraffic.com.au or 131 701 or your local Council.

Check disruptions to public transport at www.transportnsw.info/alerts or call the Transport Infoline on 131 500

For emergency help in floods and storms, call the NSW State Emergency Service on 132 500.

In life threatening situations, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.

Issued by Superintendent Tom Jory - NSW SES Incident Controller

Email: nhz.operations@ses.nsw.gov.au