Flood Warnings NSW: Where to Check and How to Get Ready
NSW is prone to floods and is no stranger to destructive flooding. When heavy rainfall and extreme weather hit, communities across the state can be severely impacted—homes, roads, and infrastructure often face significant damage. Staying informed and prepared is essential to ensuring safety.
In this guide, we explore the flood warnings in NSW. You’ll learn where to check flood warnings, understand different flood levels, identify the most at-risk areas, and know exactly what to do when NSW floods hit. Stay ahead of the storm—let’s dive in.
Where to Check Flood Warnings in NSW
Staying informed about flood warnings in New South Wales (NSW) is crucial, especially during heavy rainfall or storm seasons. Here are the best ways to check for flash flooding NSW updates:
Bureau of Meteorology (BOM): Visit the BOM website or app for official flood watches, warnings, and weather alerts.
NSW State Emergency Service (SES): The NSW SES provides real-time updates, evacuation notices, and safety advice on their website and social media channels.
Hazards Near Me App: This free app from the NSW government sends emergency alerts, including flood warnings, directly to your smartphone based on your location.
Live Traffic NSW: Check road closures and traffic disruptions caused by floods on the Live Traffic NSW website or app.
Local Radio and News Services: Tune into local radio stations or TV news for immediate flood information and emergency broadcasts.
Understanding the Flood Warning Levels and Their Meanings
When floods threaten communities in NSW, authorities issue warnings to help people understand the level of risk and what actions to take. The Australian Warning System (AWS) uses a nationally consistent, three-tiered format to signify the urgency of the situation and the expected level of impact.
Advice
This is the lowest alert level. It means there is no immediate danger, but you should stay informed and be prepared. Authorities may issue advice warning if rising water levels are being monitored or if rainfall is expected that could lead to localised flooding. It’s a cue to review your emergency plan, check weather and flood updates, and prepare your property and household in case the situation escalates.
Watch and Act
This level indicates that conditions are changing and there may be a threat to lives or property. You should take action now to protect yourself and others. This might mean moving to higher ground, avoiding travel through flood-prone areas, or preparing for evacuation. It’s also the right time to prepare for power outages during flooding. Prepare your home battery backup solutions. The EcoFlow DELTA Pro power station and the EcoFlow 400W Portable Solar Panel are advised to be used together for powerful backup power.
Emergency Warning
This is the highest level of flood alert. It means that flooding is happening or is imminent and poses a serious risk. Take immediate action to stay safe—this could include evacuating your area, following directions from emergency services, or moving to a shelter. Ignoring an Emergency Warning can put lives in danger.
What Areas in NSW Are Most at Risk?
The risk of floods NSW is heavily influenced by rainfall patterns, river systems, and geography. Many inland towns are particularly vulnerable due to their proximity to major rivers and flat terrain. Towns like Narrabri, Moree, and Walgett often experience flooding when the Namoi and Barwon rivers overflow during periods of intense rainfall.
Additionally, Forbes, Nyngan, and Hilston are also high-risk due to their location along the Lachlan and Bogan rivers. These areas have a history of repeated flooding, with water often isolating communities and damaging homes, roads, and farmland. In such regions, preparedness and early warning systems are especially vital.
Moreover, coastal and river-adjacent towns like Yamba, Moama, and Bourke face flood risks from a combination of riverine and flash flooding, especially during storm surges or prolonged rain events. Walcha, being elevated, may be less prone to river flooding but still experiences localized flash floods from intense storms.
How to Prepare for Flooding in NSW
Since you know the flooding risks in NSW, now is the time to prepare for them. Getting ready before a flood hits can protect lives and property. Below are essential items and strategies to help you stay safe and resilient during flood events.
Emergency Kit Essentials
So, what to pack to prepare for a flood in NSW? Start by assembling an emergency kit that includes non-perishable food, bottled water, first aid supplies, important documents (in waterproof storage), a battery-powered or hand-crank radio, flashlights, spare batteries, hygiene items, and warm clothing. Make sure everyone in your household knows where the kit is stored and how to use it.
Portable Power Stations
Getting a portable power station ready is essential when flooding is pending. Options like the EcoFlow DELTA Pro Portable Power Station are especially reliable. This portable power station features a 3.6-25 kWh expandable capacity and various outlets from AC to USB-A, USB-C, and more, capable of powering 99% of household appliances during outages.
Evacuation Plan and Alerts
Know your local evacuation routes and have a plan for where to go if you need to leave quickly. Stay informed by enabling notifications from the Hazards Near Me app and following updates from the SES and BOM. You can also check power outages via your electricity provider’s website or app to track restoration timelines and prepare accordingly.
What to Do During a Flood
When flooding begins, quick and informed action can make a life-saving difference. Follow these steps to stay safe:
Stay Informed: Keep monitoring local news, the BOM website, and alerts via the Hazards Near Me app or emergency services.
Avoid Driving Through Floodwaters: Never drive, walk, or ride through floodwaters. As little as 15cm of water can sweep a car away.
Move to Higher Ground: If you're in a flood-prone area, relocate to higher ground or upper floors early. Don’t wait for evacuation orders if you're at risk.
Follow Evacuation Orders: If authorities issue an evacuation, do so immediately. Delaying can put you and emergency crews at greater risk.
Turn Off Utilities: Disconnect power, gas, and water if safe to do so before leaving or if water starts entering your home.
Keep Emergency Kit Close: Have your emergency kit, important documents, and mobile power sources within reach and ready to go.
Avoid Contaminated Water: Stay away from floodwaters—they may carry sewage, chemicals, or debris.
Look Out for Others: Check on neighbours, especially the elderly or disabled, and offer help if safe.
What to Do After a Flood
Once floodwaters recede, it’s important to return home safely and cautiously. Only re-enter your property when authorities confirm it’s safe. Be alert for structural damage, gas leaks, or electrical issues.
Clean and disinfect thoroughly, wear protective gear, and dispose of any food or items that came into contact with floodwater. Document damage for insurance and contact your local SES for recovery assistance.
Conclusion
As destructive as floods are, they don’t have to catch you off guard. By learning about your local flood risks, understanding official flood warnings NSW, and staying connected to real-time updates, you can respond quickly and effectively when danger arises. Preparing essentials like a first aid kit and an emergency generator for the house ensures your household remains safe and functional during outages. With the right knowledge and planning, you can weather the storm and protect what matters most.
FAQs
Where are the high-risk flood areas in NSW?
High-risk flood areas in NSW include towns like Narrabri, Moree, Forbes, Walgett, and Nyngan, which are located near major river systems. Coastal and low-lying regions such as Yamba and Moama also face frequent flood threats. These areas are more vulnerable due to geography, weather patterns, and river overflow.
What does SES stand for in NSW?
In NSW, SES stands for State Emergency Service. It is a volunteer-based organization that provides emergency assistance during natural disasters like floods and storms. The SES plays a crucial role in issuing alerts, coordinating evacuations, conducting rescues, and supporting community safety before, during, and after severe weather events.
What is the warning of a flood?
A flood warning is an official alert issued when flooding is expected or already occurring. It provides critical information about affected areas, expected water levels, and recommended safety actions. In NSW, flood warnings are typically issued by the Bureau of Meteorology and the State Emergency Service to help people prepare and respond.
Are flood warnings and flood watches the same?
No, they’re different. A flood watch indicates that flooding is possible and communities should stay alert. A flood warning means flooding is either occurring or imminent and action should be taken immediately. Understanding this distinction helps people respond appropriately based on the severity and timing of the threat.