Floodwater continues to surge down the Hawkesbury River, resulting in the closure of both North Richmond and Windsor Bridges and they may stay closed for the next 48 hours says the RMS.
The 12.30pm SES update said both bridges, along with the Yarramundi Bridge, which is now under more than 1-2 metres of water, will be closed for the next 48 hours.
The RMS has confirmed that both the Sackville and Lower Portland Ferries have ceased operation.
Other closures expected over the weekend include:
- The Webbs Creek Ferry
- The ferry at Wisemans Ferry.
The NSW SES is advising residents to contact Live Traffic RTA on 132 701 for further information.
A Flood Watch which has been issued by the Bureau of Meteorology for moderate flooding is current for the catchment based on forecast rain for the next couple of days.
Flood Evacuation Orders have been issued for areas around Pitt Town Bottoms, Richmond Lowlands and Grono Point as well as caravan parks in low lying areas along the Hawkesbury River from Windsor to Wisemans Ferry. NSW SES volunteers are in the field doorknocking in these areas instructing residents to leave immediately.
The NSW SES is advising people to go to the house of a friend or relative in the first instance. Alternatively evacuation centres are set up in the following locations:
- Windsor Baptist Church, Corner Blacktown Road and George Street South Windsor
- North Richmond Neighbourhood Centre, William Street North Richmond.
- Glenorie RSL Club, Corner Post Office and Old Northern Roads, Glenorie.
The NSW SES is monitoring the situation and advises:
- People working, living or camping near rivers and streams must monitor the latest weather forecasts and warnings and listen to the radio for updates and advice.
- Farmers and other landholders should keep a watch on their streams and be prepared to move pumps, equipment and livestock to higher ground. Please ensure adequate feed is available.
- Don’t drive, ride or walk in floodwater. Water may be over low lying causeways.
- FloodSafe advice is available at www.ses.nsw.gov.au
For emergency assistance in floods and storms, call the SES on 132 500
For life threatening emergencies, call 000 immediately
For the latest weather forecast: www.bom.gov.au
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More updates as they come to hand.