With heavy rainfall expected to continue across the Coast today, Central Coast Council is reminding residents to avoid unnecessary travel and stay well away from flood waters as it continues to respond to and monitor impacted areas across the region. 

Council Acting Chief Executive Officer Rik Hart said Council workers have been on the ground managing road closures, responding to water and sewer interruptions and supporting emergency services, as severe weather and flash flooding impacts the region.

“250-300mm of rain has fallen across the Coast over recent days, with further rain expected today and over the next few days,” Mr Hart said.

“As at 9am today, flood levels Tuggerah Lakes are at 1.32 metres and may reach around 1.50 metres by Sunday afternoon. 

“This is higher than the April 2015 flooding event when levels peaked at 1.45 metres, but less than the February 2020 event which reached 1.67 metres when many roads and properties were flooded.

“The flood peak may last 12 to 24 hours and the lake level may remain above the minor flood level (0.90 metres) until late Monday. Senior Council staff have been on the ground today, with crews responding to impacts.” 

SES have crews have received to 673 requests for assistance across the Central Coast since the beginning of the event and are inspecting known hotspots and undertaking welfare checks with affected properties. Residents requiring flood assistance or support can contact SES on 132 500.

Community members impacted by flooding can access sandbags at multiple SES collection points across the Coast, including San Remo (boat ramp at Highview Avenue), Chittaway (corner Geoffrey Road and Sunshine Avenue), Wyong SES (Levitt Street, Wyong) and Gosford SES (Pateman Road, Erina).

“I have been meeting twice daily with Senior Council staff to coordinate the incident response and would like to thank both SES and our crews in their tireless efforts to support the safety of our community,” Mr Hart said. 

“The Entrance Channel remains open and flowing with an estimated width of 80 metres. This is more than 50 percent wider than it was at the commencement of the February 2020 flood event.  

“The minor channel maintenance work removed a small amount of sand on the north side of The Entrance Channel to allow for a more direct flow path of predicted floodwaters and heavy machinery is on standby, should any further unforeseen works be required.

“Council is also responding to multiple water and sewer service interruptions as a result of the significant rainfall, including major interruptions in Davistown and South Tacoma. Residents experiencing any water or sewer concerns are encouraged to keep us informed by contacting Council immediately on 1300 463 954.

“Power outages are being experienced at Yarramalong, Mangrove Mountain, Glenworth Valley, Mount White and properties around Lower Mangrove, Gunndermann, Spencer around the river system. If you are experiencing any issues, please contact Ausgrid 131388.

“There are currently 78 road closures across the Coast and Council is working with Transport NSW to keep the community updated. 

“I’d like to take this opportunity reinforce that residents should slow down and drive to the conditions and avoid driving or walking in or near floodwaters – remember, if it’s flooded, forget it. There is also the potential for fallen trees due to wind gusts over the next 24 hours, so please be careful. 

“Residents should also avoid swimming and any other recreational contact with the Coast’s waterways over the coming days, including for a few days after the significant rainfall subsides. 

“Council workers are inspecting our beaches for any erosion issues and are monitoring conditions closely. 

“Council will continue to update the community as this severe weather event progresses.”

Updates on local roads can be found on Council's Facebook page. All low-lying roads close to Tuggerah Lakes are impacted and should be avoided.

Currently Mooney Mooney Dam is spilling and levels are being monitored by SES and Council. SES has issued a warning for properties directly downstream from Mooney Mooney Dam. This is a precaution for residents affected to be prepared.

For emergency help in floods and storms, contact the local SES Unit on 132 500. For life threatening emergencies, call 000.

ENDS