The NRMA urges caution on roads as wild weather hits parts of NSW
Key points
- Parts of NSW have recorded more than 400mm of rain in 48 hours
- The Hunter Valley and Mid-Coast regions have been hardest hit
- Flooding and road closures are causing disruptions for motorists
- The NRMA urges drivers not to drive through floodwater, while flagging roadside services may be delayed in some areas
The NRMA is urging drivers in NSW to take extra care on the roads this week as parts of the state are lashed by extreme weather.
Heavy rain has caused flash flooding and road closures in the Hunter Valley and Mid-Coast regions, with Taree recording the state’s highest rainfall of 412mm in the past 48 hours.
The State Emergency Service has received more than 2000 requests for assistance in the last 24 hours, with 284 of those being flood rescues according to reports from the ABC.
The wild weather has also forced residents to evacuate in the Hunter region, while multiple rivers are under major flood warnings. The Manning River has reached a record high, surpassing the 1929 flood level of six metres, with record-break floods occurring in Taree and Mount George.
Multiple emergency warnings are also in place. The NRMA urges travellers to check the Service NSW website or app for live updates on traffic conditions and road closures.
The wild weather is expected to continue for the next 24 to 48 hours with up to 200m forecasted that will continue to create localised flashed flooding.
NRMA members should also be aware that wait times for roadside assistance may be impacted in areas hit by bad weather.
When driving in wet conditions, it’s important drivers take extra care and allow additional time to react to hazards such as broken road surfaces and aquaplaning.
Check the links below for advice on how to travel safely in areas impacted by extreme weather and flooding.
Links
