September 28th 2024.
Overnight, the NSW State Emergency Service has been kept busy responding to a significant number of calls for assistance. The Northern Rivers region of the state has been hit hard by strong winds and heavy rainfall, resulting in more than 260 calls for help. The Bureau of Meteorology issued a minor flood warning for Lismore this morning, as a low-pressure system formed off the coast of Queensland.
The Wilsons River, which runs through Lismore, is expected to reach a peak of 6.8 meters this afternoon. In light of this, the SES has advised residents to remain cautious as further showers are forecasted for the rest of the day. The agency has been working tirelessly to address various issues, including fallen trees, property damage, leaking roofs, and providing storm and flood assistance. Additionally, two flood rescues were carried out yesterday, one of which involved a vehicle and caravan becoming stuck in a flooded causeway, while the other involved a multi-agency operation to rescue two adults and a child from rising waters.
With wind gusts reaching up to 93km/h in Evans Head, the SES has issued a "Watch & Act, Prepare to Evacuate" warning for several low-lying areas. However, as of this morning, the advice has been downgraded to an advice level for Tweed Heads, Numinbah, Mullumbimby, Byron Bay, Ballina, and Brunswick Heads. Superintendent Joanna Jones, the Incident Controller for the NSW SES, emphasized the importance of monitoring the situation and being prepared to evacuate if necessary. She also advised residents to make alternative accommodation arrangements, such as staying with family or friends, wherever possible.
Since Friday morning, there has been heavy rainfall over the Wilson's River catchment, and the rain has intensified overnight. The Bureau of Meteorology had previously issued a severe weather warning for NSW and the ACT, but it has since been cancelled. While the immediate threat of severe weather has passed, the Bureau will continue to monitor the situation closely. The good news is that damaging winds and gusts are expected to ease throughout the day.
Overall, it has been a challenging time for the residents of the Northern Rivers region. The SES has been working tirelessly to provide assistance, and the situation continues to be monitored closely. In the meantime, residents are urged to remain cautious and follow the advice of the authorities to ensure their safety.
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