The weekend's sunshine was too good to be true as Southern NSW prepares for more adverse weather.
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Heavy rainfall is currently developing over the coastline due to the combination of a low-pressure trough and a moist easterly airstream.
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While initial rainfall is expected to be light, it is supposed to intensify over the course of the afternoon and into the coming days.
A current Flood Watch is out and includes catchments from the Illawarra Coast all the way down to the Moruya and Deua Rivers.
Heavy rain is expected to continue through to Friday with six hour totals potentially reaching 140mm in coastal areas.There is a chance that the region will experience flash flooding as a result of the sheer volume of water.
SES Units are urging people to be prepared for the worst just in case and to have a plan in place.
A common community question is: Where can I get sandbags?
Below we will list current locations where residents can pick them up.
- Nowra: 92 Albatross Road, West Nowra - At the South End of the Emergency Management Centre car park.
- St Georges Basin: 41 Tasman Road, St Georges Basin
- Ulladulla: 188 Camden St, Ulladulla
- Lake Conjola: Sandbags are currently available at the Telstra Tower.
Chief Inspector/Shoalhaven Local Commander Adam Carney said people will still need to ring 132 500, to get in touch with the SES and let them know of their situation.
"Ideally people will be able to help themselves, fill up sandbags and protect themselves and their property but we encourage people to call that number to keep everyone in the loop," he said.
"Staying up to date through your local SES social media pages will also really help, as they constantly update with any new information relevant to the region."
The SES advises that people:
- To not drive, ride or walk through flood water.
- 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.
Check Live Traffic NSW, the Bureau of Meteorology and www.ses.nsw.gov.au websites so you are aware of your local risk.