BOM ISSUES FLASH FLOODING WARNING FOR NEWCASTLE AND HUNTER REGION

The Bureau of Meteorology have issued a warning for heavy rain and damaging winds for Newcastle and the Hunter.

NSW SES are asking residents to prepare for localised flooding on local roads and drains..

During these sustained periods of wet weather, one of the key safety messages is simple: don’t drive through floodwaters. Doing so will likely severely damage your vehicle and could also put your life at risk.

A typical car will lose power in depths greater than 15cm as water enters the exhaust and washes into the air intake, causing it to float once flood levels exceed 30cm.

Modern cars with electrically powered windows and locks are almost impossible to escape from once water finds its way into wiring and motors, disabling switch-gear and pressing on bodywork.

• The simple rules are:
• ⛈️ Never drive, ride, walk or travel through floodwater
• ⛈️ Never let children play in floodwater
• ⛈️ Stay indoors, clear of windows
• ⛈️ Stay clear of creeks, drains, causeways, gutters, streams, fallen trees, power lines and damaged buildings
• ⛈️ If driving, put your hazard lights on and pull over to the side of the road keeping clear of drains, causeways, streams, creeks, trees and power lines
• ⛈️ If outdoors, seek secure shelter away from drains, causeways, streams, creeks, trees and power lines
• ⛈️ Listen to ABC Newcastle and other media for information, updates and advice
• ⛈️ Contact NSW SES – City of Newcastle , NSW SES Lake Macquarie Unit of Hunter NSW SES for assistance