Severe weather warning update

THE Upper Hunter has been issued a severe weather warning as a deepening low pressure trough continues to move across New South Wales from the west, with the potential to cause major to minor flooding.

A strong high pressure system over the southern Tasman Sea has been driving widespread heavy rainfall, which is expected to continue through to Wednesday.

Residents should remain on high alert and follow road closures and flood safety advice in their areas.

Low lying properties should:

• Lift possessions and important items above the predicted flood height;
• Take pets, essential items, warm clothes, medicines, insurance documents and valuables with you;
• Leave as early as possible to avoid restricted roads;
• Share this information with family, friends and neighbours and help others where possible.

Flood Safety Advice:

In life threatening emergencies, call 000 (triple zero) immediately. If you require rescue, assistance to evacuate or other emergency help, ring NSW SES on 132 500.

• Avoid drowning -stay out of rising water, seek refuge in the highest available place;
• Prevent damage to your vehicle- move it under cover, away from areas likely to flood;
• Avoid being swept away;
• Stay out of fast-flowing creeks and storm drains;
• Never drive, ride or walk through flood water. Flood water can be deceptive and dangerous.

For more emergency information, advice, and access to the latest river heights and rainfall observations and forecasts:

• NSW SES: www.ses.nsw.gov.au
• RMS Live Traffic: www.livetraffic.com
• Latest River Heights and Rainfall Observations: www.bom.gov.au/nsw/flood/midnorth.shtml
• Latest NSW Warnings: www.bom.gov.au/nsw/warnings/
• Rainfall Forecasts: www.bom.gov.au/australia/meteye/
• BOM NSW Twitter: www.twitter.com/BOM_NSW