The New South Wales State Emergency Service (SES) is working tirelessly to clear a significant backlog of incidents after a volatile and destructive weather system pummelled vast regions of the state over the weekend.
Widespread Damage and a Deluge of Calls
Heavy rainfall and sudden flash-flooding triggered extensive damage across metropolitan Sydney and the Mid-North Coast. The intense low-pressure system then tracked northwards, impacting the Northern Rivers and northeastern parts of NSW.
SES NSW Chief Superintendent Dallas Burnes confirmed to Sunrise on Monday that emergency crews received more than 3000 calls for assistance as the wild weather moved through. While many jobs have been completed, approximately 260 remained outstanding, though Burnes expressed confidence that most would be finalised throughout Monday.
"Those easing conditions today — with only scattered showers rather than thunderstorms — should assist us in getting rid of that backlog of jobs," Burnes stated.
Dangerous Night-Time Flood Rescues
The severe flash-flooding necessitated 31 flood rescues, with dramatic footage capturing the perilous situations. While no injuries have been reported, multiple vehicles were trapped after drivers attempted to enter floodwaters.
Chief Superintendent Burnes highlighted the extreme dangers faced by volunteers during these operations. Many rescues were conducted in the dark of night amidst heavy rain and severe conditions.
"It is hard work, and it’s very dangerous work, particularly those flood rescues at night and in heavy rain conditions," he said. "Our volunteers are there to help our communities and they’ve done a great job."
State on High Alert as Clean-Up Continues
The SES response follows a high alert issued for NSW on Saturday, when forecasters warned the slow-moving system could dump more than 100mm of rain in some areas. Crews have been stretched across multiple regions, with additional support sent to assist the hardest-hit communities on the Mid-North Coast.
Authorities continue to urge residents in flood-prone areas to remain vigilant as clean-up operations proceed and showers persist across northern NSW. The community is reminded to never drive, ride, or walk through floodwaters.
