On a very wet first day of summer, thunderstorms and heavy rainfall caused flight diversions at Sydney airport and turned city streets into what looked like rivers.
According to reports one person was rescued from floodwaters in Sydney’s south and the city’s emergency services responded to hundreds of calls for help.
On social media numerous accounts posted footage of significant flash flooding in the upmarket suburb and shopping area of Double Bay.
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TV presenter Karl Stefanovic shared footage from a car slowly making its way through flood waters as water lapped at the doors and flowed into businesses.
The Today show star posted the footage to Instagram Stories showing one area of Double Bay.
Over the past week NSW has been battered by storms. According to the NSW State Emergency Service (SES) volunteers had responded to more than 900 incidents since the storms began earlier in the week.
These were mostly for fallen trees and branches, leaking roofs and requests for sandbagging.
NSW SES State Duty Commander, Acting Assistant Commissioner Paul McQueen reminded people to stay across the latest warnings and information, and never drive through floodwater.
“While all people were safely rescued overnight, it’s a reminder of the dangers posed by taking the risk of driving through floodwater,” he said.
“The message is simple – Please never drive, ride, or play in floodwaters. I also want to thank those who do the right thing and turn around to find another way. By doing this, you are saving our volunteers from being put into harm’s way.”
The Bureau of Meteorology has predicted above average rainfall throughout December, and has forecast widespread rain, showers, and thunderstorms with moderate to heavy falls to continue into next week, increasing the risk of flash flooding and riverine rises.
Acting Assistant Commissioner McQueen urged residents to know their risk and plan ahead this storm season.
“With more rainfall predicted over the summer period, travellers heading to caravan parks and resorts in low lying areas should have a plan and prepare for possible heavy rain, which can lead to flash flooding and riverine rises,” Acting Assistant Commissioner McQueen said.
“You don’t know what condition the road underneath the water is in and can’t see hidden obstacles and debris under the surface. Flooded rivers may also contain hidden debris, snakes, spiders, chemicals and sewage.”
