13 February 2009

Significant Weather Media Release

From heat wave to floods

In contrast to the heat wave conditions experienced last weekend the Bureau of Meteorology is alerting the public to a developing weather system that will bring flooding to parts of northern New South Wales this weekend.

Moderate to heavy rainfall is expected over northern NSW today. During the weekend an east coast low is expected to develop with the potential to bring heavy rainfall and gale-force winds to parts of the North Coast, Mid North Coast and Hunter with the heavy rainfall extending inland to the Northwest Slopes and Plains. See Forecast Rainfall Map. Gale force winds and very rough seas are likely to affect the coastal waters.

It is too early at this stage to predict the precise location of the heaviest rainfall and strongest winds, as this will depend on the eventual position and movement of the centre of the low. However people are advised to monitor up-to-date forecasts and warnings for more information as the weather system develops. A Flood Watch and a Severe Weather Warning have been issued.

The NSW State Emergency Service [SES] advises people: Never drive, ride or walk through floodwater, stay well clear of creeks, storm drains and causeways and keep listening to your local radio station for information, updates and advice.

More information:

• Latest Warnings
• Latest NSW Forecasts
• Forecast Maps: Rainfall | Wind
• SES Floodsafe Information
• About East Coast Lows
• Composite Radar image
• Latest Rainfall Map
• Latest Observations

For further information, the media should contact the NSW Bureau's 24 hour media line.