Eastern New South Wales is experiencing widespread disruption following intense rainfall that has led to flash flooding and severe weather conditions. This event has impacted multiple communities across Sydney, the Mid North Coast, and Hunter regions, forcing the closure of schools and critical roads. The situation underscores the challenges posed by sudden weather changes and the importance of timely warnings and response efforts to protect residents and infrastructure.
Heavy rainfall and flooding are significant concerns for any region, especially when they affect populated areas with key transportation routes and essential services. Rapidly developing floods can isolate communities and endanger lives, making it crucial for both authorities and the public to remain vigilant. This article outlines the recent developments, affected locations, and ongoing measures related to the current weather event in New South Wales.
Severe Weather Warning Issued for Key Regions
The Bureau of Meteorology has issued severe weather warnings covering a broad area that includes Newcastle, Port Macquarie, Taree, Wingham, Nelson Bay, Dungog, and Yarrowitch. During the night, more than 100 millimeters of rain fell between Newcastle and Kempsey from 10 pm to 3 am, triggering at least 30 preliminary flood warnings along the state’s east coast. Alongside heavy rainfall, strong southeasterly winds averaging 50 to 70 kilometers per hour are expected, with damaging gusts up to 90 kilometers per hour forecast for coastal areas of the Hunter and Mid North Coast regions.
A “watch and act” warning has been issued for residents near Dora Creek, located north of the Central Coast, advising them to prepare for possible isolation due to flooding risks. This alert reflects the severity of the situation and the unpredictable nature of flash flooding, which can escalate rapidly with heavy rain and strong winds.
Widespread School Closures Affect Communities
The hazardous weather conditions have forced the closure of at least thirteen schools across affected areas. Public schools impacted include Dungog High School, Dungog Public School, Kirkton Public School in Lower Belford, Iona Public School in Woodville, Glen William Public School, Elands Public School, Martins Creek Public School, Mount Pleasant Public School, Narara Valley High School, Vacy Public School, Wingham Brush Public School, Wingham High School, and Wingham Public School.
In addition to public institutions, St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School in Dungog and St Nicholas Early Child Care Centre have also suspended operations. These closures demonstrate the broad effect of the weather on education and childcare services, complicating routines for families in these regions.
Road Flooding and Closures Disrupt Travel Across Multiple Areas
Floodwaters have inundated numerous roads, creating hazards and forcing many closures across the Hunter and Mid North Coast. East Seaham Road in East Seaham and the Newline Road turnoff toward Raymond Terrace are currently underwater, with motorists advised to avoid these routes. Other affected locations include Muswellbrook, McCullys Gap, Hebden, Mitchells Flat, Luskintyre, Medowie, Seaham, Gillieston Heights, Reedy Creek, Glendon Brook, Louth Park, and both East and South Maitland.
The bridge at Rothbury on Old North Road, just beyond Wine Country Drive, has been closed for safety reasons. Additional road closures have been reported on Allandale Road near the Hunter Expressway, Gregory Road between Robert Road and Station Lane in Lochinvar, Winders Lane at Old North Road in Farley, Brush Farm Road between Morpeth Road and Pitnacree Road in Raworth, and Old Maitland Road at the Pacific Highway in Hexham.
Traffic Management and Community Advisories Remain Active
In Sydney, most roads have remained open, with exceptions including The Esplanade in Narrabeen and a partial closure of one southbound lane on Ryde Road near Minnamurra Avenue in Gordon. The Live Traffic NSW website continues to provide updates on road conditions, while local social media pages offer community-specific information to keep residents informed.
Authorities emphasize the importance of avoiding flooded areas and following official advice to ensure safety. With ongoing rain and volatile weather conditions expected, these updates are crucial for helping residents navigate disruptions and hazards throughout the Hunter, Mid North Coast, and surrounding regions.
