The Macleay has had over 100mms of rain in the last few days, but according to the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM), the wild weather isn't over just yet.
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Moderate to heavy rain is expected for the rest of the day, with a chance of thunderstorms later this afternoon and evening.
Winds averaging 60-70 km/h and gusts exceeding 90 km/h are possible along the coastal fringe north, possibly extending south to Crescent Head.
Dangerous surf conditions are forecast, and coastal activities such as rock fishing, swimming and surfing are not recommended at this time.
The weather system is also expected to cause river flooding in some catchments; the Macleay River has a minor flood warning in place.
Anybody living or working along rivers and streams are advised to monitor the latest weather forecasts and warnings and be ready to move to higher ground should flooding develop.
The State Emergency Service (SES) said storms are also possible along the coast and are advising residents to:
- Move vehicles under cover or away from trees.
- Secure or put away loose items around your house, yard and balcony.
- Keep at least 8 metres away from fallen power lines or objects that may be energised, such as fences.
- Trees that have been damaged by fire are likely to be more unstable and more likely to fall.
- Report fallen power lines to either Ausgrid (131 388), Endeavour Energy (131 003), Essential Energy (132 080) or Evoenergy (131 093) as shown on your power bill.
- Don't drive, ride or walk through floodwater.
- Keep clear of creeks and storm drains.
- If you are trapped by flash flooding, seek refuge in the highest available place and ring 000 if you need rescue.
- Be aware that run-off from rainfall in fire-affected areas may behave differently and be more rapid. It may also contain debris such as ash, soil, trees and rocks.
- After bushfires, heavy rain and the loss of foliage can make the ground soft and heavy, leading to a greater chance of landslides.
- Stay vigilant and monitor conditions. Note that the landscape may have changed following bushfires.
- For emergency help in floods and storms, ring your local SES Unit on 132 500.
Another massive downpour is forecast for the Macleay tomorrow, with the Bureau of Meteorology predicting a possible 45 to 100mm of rain and an extreme UV index.
Thunderstorms are anticipated throughout the day, and the flood warning and dangerous surf conditions are still in place.
By Wednesday and Thursday, the weather is forecast to calm down significantly, with only a shower or two and a small chance of a thunderstorm.
Throughout the rest of the week, and weekend, the rain is forecast to slow to a drizzle, and the worst of the wild weather is expected to be behind us.
In the meantime, the experts are advising everyone monitor their local conditions and forecasts, and stay out of floodwaters.
The NSW SES and Bureau of Meteorology are continuing to monitor the weather system closely.
Stay alert this week, listen to any updates, advice and monitor the Bureau of Meteorology website on www.bom.gov.au .
For more advice on how to prepare for storms and floods, visit the NSW SES www.ses.nsw.gov.au/getready
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