MOTORISTS URGED NOT TO DRIVE THROUGH FLOODED ROADS AS SEVERE WEATHER BATTERS STATE

The NSW State Emergency Service (SES) is urging commuters not to take the risk of driving through fash fooding as heavy rain lashes Metropolitan Sydney, the Central Coast, North Coast and Blue Mountains.

A large storm front is moving across the Great Dividing Range to the east this afternoon (Thursday, 9 November), bringing damaging winds, possible hail and heavy rain which could lead to fash fooding in low lying areas.

The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a severe weather warning for heavy rain across Metropolitan Sydney, the Hunter, Central Tablelands, Central West Slops and Plains and North West Slopes districts.

NSW SES has personnel and assets prepositioned to respond in our South Eastern, Metro and Northern zones.

NSW SES Senior Manager of State Operations, Chief Superintendent Dallas Burnes, said fash fooding is dangerous and can happen anywhere there is localised heavy rainfall.

“If it’s fooded, stop and fnd an alternative route. Flash fooding can be deeper than it appears and can contain sewage and poisons, as well as hidden debris,” Chief Superintendent Burnes said.

“If you live, work or regularly commute through a low lying area, there may be no offcial warning for fash fooding. It is critical you assess the conditions and also check live traffc before travelling.”

If you are trapped by rising fash foodwater, seek the safest refuge position and call Triple Zero (000) if life threatening.

The NSW SES advises that people should: step to informing those mum and dad investors, who may want to add an extra living space to their property, which in turn is a small step to helping to reduce the housing crisis.

• Keep clear of creeks and storm drains.

• Don’t walk, ride your bike or drive through food water.

• If you are trapped by fash fooding, seek refuge in the highest available place and ring 000 if you need rescue.

• Unplug computers and appliances.

• Avoid using the phone during the storm.

• Stay indoors away from windows, and keep children and pets indoors as well.

• For help in foods and storms, ring the NSW SES on 132 500.

When I saw the explosion of new houses being built in the Goonellabah area, out of food prone districts, I realised that many people have entered the construction feld on and have become property ‘tycoons’.

I think many of us have donned our design hats and are playing our own version of ‘The Block’. With the return of our builder, we prepare to go into our ‘second season’. Will keep you updated.

Little Steps