While storm season has finished for another year, and the La Niña weather pattern has passed, NSW State Emergency Service (NSW SES) is reminding communities of the need to stay vigilant and prepared.
Minister for Police and Emergency Services David Elliott reminded the community that although the storm season is over, the community cannot get complacent.
“The tragic impacts of the recent severe weather event was felt right across the State, it’s a sobering reminder of the damages of storms and flooding,” Mr Elliott said.
“Although we mark the end of the storm season, we acknowledge that the work to support impacted communities continues, and we thank our frontline services, especially our volunteers, for their tireless efforts,” he said.
This storm season, NSW SES responded to more than 30,700 requests for assistance, many of which were for damaged roofs, fallen trees and requests for sandbags.
NSW SES Commissioner Carlene York said storms and heavy rain are not isolated to one part of the year, and with the ground already saturated, future severe weather has the potential to cause riverine and flash flooding.
“It is important community members learn from this recent event and understand just how dangerous storms and floodwater can be,” Commissioner York said.
“I encourage all communities to take the time to prepare,” she said.
“This is especially the case for our communities in western parts of the State, that face the very real risk of flooding as water moves from southern parts of Queensland into NSW.
Preparing now can go a long way to keeping you, your family and even your animals safe,” she said. For more information on how to prepare for storms and floods and for the latest warnings and alerts, visit ses.nsw.gov.au.
