It’s been a bit of a wait and the social media comments about the lack of rain were starting to build, but overnight the promised heavy dump of rain began to move beyond Glen Innes and Tenterfield.
The latest severe weather warning from the Bureau of Meterology says Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, which made landfall over the southeast Queensland on Saturday evening, has weakened into a trough that extends into NSW. Heavy rainfall is possible over parts of the Northern Rivers, Northern Tablelands, Mid North Coast and the Northwest Slopes and Plains, easing during Monday afternoon.
Heavy rainfall and flash flooding is expected on the eastern parts of the Northern Tablelands and the Northwest Slopes and Plains. Six-hourly rainfall totals between 50 and 100 mm are possible, while 24-hourly Rainfall totals between 100 and 150 mm are possible, reaching 150 to 200 mm about the border ranges.
Locations which may be affected by flooding include Lismore, Armidale, Tamworth, Gunnedah, Moree and Narrabri. However, much like the impact of the cyclone itself, the flood warnings have all been downgraded to forecasts of possible minor flooding. There is a concern that Toomelah may get isolated if there are supercells formed by the collision of Alfred with another trough causing a super cell.
NSW SES has issued a ‘Stay informed’ advice for:
- minor flooding on the Gwydir River at Gravesend and surrounds including the Horton River communities, through Pallamallawa to the Yarraman Bridge north of Moree
- minor flooding on the Severn River downstream of Pindari Dam, affecting Ashford and surrounding areas
- minor flooding on the Namoi River River downstream of Keepit Dam, affecting Gunnedah and surrounding areas
- minor flooding on the Namoi River at Narrabri and surrounding areas
- minor flooding on the Peel River downstream of Chaffey Dam affecting Tamworth and surrounding areas, including Woolomin and Piallamore
- minor flooding on the Severn River downstream of Pindari Dam, affecting Ashford and surrounding areas
- minor flooding on the Macintyre River at Boggabilla and surrounding areas. Heavier than predicted rain may cause isolation to Toomelah based on heavy rainfall associated with super cells.
A Flood Watch is also current in Queensland for the Condamine and Border Rivers. Widespread minor flooding affecting local roads across the Moree Plains Shire were reported last night.
Sheep graziers are warned that cold temperatures, heavy rain and showers and easterly winds are expected during Monday. Areas likely to be affected include parts of the Northern Tablelands and North West Slopes & Plains forecast districts. There is a risk of losses of lambs and sheep exposed to these conditions.
Roads east remain impacted by the ongoing weather system, with Waterfall Way and The Gwydir Highway remaining closed.
What you need to do:
- If you are likely to be isolated due to flooding, stock up on essential items now. People working or camping along the river should monitor river heights and be prepared to relocate to higher ground.
- Farmers should consider moving pumps and farm equipment to higher ground. Companion animals and livestock should be relocated to higher ground that will not become an island.
- If you have a Home or Business Emergency Plan, follow it. Otherwise, have a conversation and plan for what you will do and take with you if you need to evacuate.
- Consider the consequences of road and bridge closures and water over roads and make alternate arrangements for work, children, and travel.
- Obey all signs about road closures and instructions from emergency services. Never drive, walk, ride through, play or swim in floodwater – it is dangerous, toxic, and may void your car insurance. If it’s flooded, forget it. Fines may apply.
- Avoid storm drains and pipes, ditches, ravines, creeks, and rivers.
- People in areas likely to be impacted by flooding should raise their assets, including waste and chemical containers above expected flood heights.
- Share this information with family, friends, and neighbours and help others prepare where possible.
For more information:
- Listen to your local ABC radio station which can be found at reception.abc.net.au
- Download the Hazards Near Me app and set your watch zones to get warning information for your areas.
- Follow us on social media @NSWSES or visit our website at www.ses.nsw.gov.au
- Check latest weather and warnings at www.bom.gov.au/nsw/
- Check road closures at www.livetraffic.com.au or 132 701 or your local Council.
- Check disruptions to public transport at www.transportnsw.info/alerts or call the Transport Infoline on 131 500
- Find more information on power outages at www.energy.nsw.gov.au/households/guides-and-helpful-advice/electricity-supply-disruptions/what-do-during-electricity