NSW | 20 Feb 2012
Around 8,000 people in the north west of New South Wales remain isolated by floodwater and that number is expected to rise to up to 10,000 as the floods move further west of the state.
Towns like Lightning Ridge, Walgett, Collarenebri, Weilmoringle and Goodooga are currently isolated and these areas are expected to remain cut off by floodwater for several weeks to come.
While rainfall has been minimal in these places, the floodwater still remains high and is continuing to move further west. Approximately 1,000 residents in Brewarrina are expected to become cut off by next week and possibly 1,500 people in Bourke a couple of weeks later.
Evacuation Orders remain in place for Weilmoringle, Goodooga Reserve and Namoi Village and Evacuation Warnings are current for Goodooga and Alice Edwards Village at Bourke.
NSW SES Commissioner, Murray Kear, said now is the time for residents in these areas to prepare for the incoming floodwater.
“We’re asking people to make sure they have enough supplies to last them for the duration of the flood,” Commissioner Kear said. “Livestock and equipment should be moved to higher ground and plenty of feed for animals should be made available.”
“People driving through floodwater is the leading cause of death and injury in a flood so it’s important for residents to remember to never drive, ride or walk through floodwater. Floodwater can also contain diseases, hidden snags and rubbish so please don’t let your children play in it,” Commissioner Kear explained.
With the assistance of other emergency service agencies, the NSW SES is delivering vital supplies like fresh food and fuel to isolated communities. Resupply efforts have been enhanced by the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), providing a C130 Hercules aircraft which delivered more than 19 tonnes of goods to Lightning Ridge this week.
Residents in isolated areas needing assistance are advised to call the NSW SES on 132 500. In life threatening situations dial 000.
Learn how to be FloodSafe .
