An estimated 10,000 homes have been damaged by floodwaters on the NSW Mid North Coast, the SES has said.
Clean-up efforts and assessments have begun in some parts of the state where floodwaters have been receding as rainfall has slowed.
The state emergency service has estimated that 10,000 properties have been damaged in the flooding event, which began four days ago.
“We are observing improvements in conditions, and today, more volunteers will be actively engaging in the damage assessment process, which is expected to take a considerable amount of time,” stated SES Chief Superintendent Paul McQueen.
“This is important work to allow us to assess any access and safety issues before de-escalating evacuation orders.”
There are still 31 emergency warnings in place, including in Lake Macquarie, Taree and Kempsey, with floodwaters rising as the flow moves downstream.
There were 56 Watch and Act warnings in place as of 6am, and 64 advice warnings.
“I emphasize that this remains a hazardous situation, with significant impacts on infrastructure and properties likely having occurred,” McQueen added.
“Regrettably, it is not feasible for individuals to return to their homes until the water level decreases further, ensuring safe access to their homes and communities.
“Homes and businesses may need to be inspected by a qualified electrician.”
Residents are still being urged to avoid driving or walking through floodwaters, with 85 rescues in the past 24 hours.
There are still 50,000 residents who have been left in isolation due to flooding in Hinton, Seahamm, Paterson, Clarence Town, Taree, Manning Point, Croki, Rawdon Island, Fredrickton, Bowraville, Thora, Kempsey, Wingham, Gloucester and Dungog.
“We will continue to resupply those isolated residents by land, water and air as part of our multi-agency response, McQueen said.
“We ask you to be patient, remain in a safe location and please don’t be tempted to drive through floodwaters or go sightseeing.”
