THE full effects of Tropical Cyclone Alfred on the Camden Haven and Hastings may not be known for several days with residents urged to remain vigilant and monitor only reliable sources of emergency information.
Cyclone tracking maps show the point at which the eye of the cyclone was expected to cross the southeast Queensland coast overnight, but damaging winds, heavy rain and hazardous surf is extending well south of the identified danger zone.
Predicted local rainfall totals are dependent on the movement and position of the system, however rapid river rises and flash flooding is expected and moderate to major flooding of the Camden Haven and Hastings rivers is possible.
Of particular concern are parts of Laurieton, North Haven, Dunbogan, Camden Head, Kew and Logans Crossing.
This Flood Watch means people living or working along rivers and streams must monitor the latest weather forecasts and warnings and be ready to move to higher ground.
Residents of coastal caravan parks should relocate if conditions deteriorate.
For official warnings and help, go to:
Bureau of Meteorology: monitor the webpage bom.gov.au/nsw/warnings/ or download the BOM Weather app.
SES: Call 132 500, monitor NSW SES Camden Haven Unit (facebook) and the webpage ses.nsw.gov.au/. Download the Hazards Near Me app to receive real-time emergency warnings and updates.
Marine Rescue: Download the Marine Rescue NSW app or monitor Channel 16 on VHF/Channel 88 27MHz.
ABC TV and Radio: The ABC is the official emergency broadcaster.
Triple Zero (000): for life threatening emergencies.
Camden Haven SES has made sandbags and sand available at Scarborough Way Reserve in Dunbogan, The Oval in Railway Street, Kendall and at the unit’s base at 21a Norman Street, Laurieton.
Because their shovels are often stolen, they recommend bringing your own.
Port Macquarie Hastings-Council carried out stabilisation work at Lake Cathie Foreshore Reserve earlier this week in anticipation of the high seas and tides further eroding the banks of the lagoon.
They are asking people to stay away from these ages.
Council lifeguards have closed beaches and Marine Rescue has advised boaters to stay on-shore.
Meantime, where weather permits, the SES is reminding people to ensure their homes and property is secured.
– Move vehicles under cover or away from trees.
– Secure or put away loose items around your house, yard and balcony.
– Keep at least eight metres away from fallen power lines or objects that may be energised, such as fences.
– Trees that have been damaged by fire are likely to be more unstable and more likely to fall.
– Report fallen power lines to either Ausgrid (131 388), Endeavour Energy (131 003), Essential Energy (132 080) or Evoenergy (131 093) as shown on your power bill.
– Don’t drive, ride or walk through flood water.
– Keep clear of creeks and storm drains.
– If you are trapped by flash flooding, seek refuge in the highest available place and ring 000 if you need rescue.
Just last month, the SES marked 70 years since it was formed in response to devastating floods that swept across the Hunter Valley, Central West and North West of NSW.
Extra SES crews have now joined the response on the Mid to Far North coasts.
Other interagency teams include Fire and Rescue NSW, NSW Police and the NSW Rural Fire Service.
By Sue STEPHENSON
