Intense Storms and Floods leave Australian State floundering Under Water
Pastor Dale Morgan
Intense Storms and Floods leave Australian State floundering Under Water *
November 07, 2009 02:15pm
AAP
The NSW government has declared the shires of Nambucca, Bellingen and
Kempsey, and Coffs Harbour on the mid north coast natural disaster areas
in the wake of extensive flooding.
Emergency Services Minister Steve Whan made the announcement on
Saturday, after a deluge of rain drenched the region and left up to 5000
people isolated.
The local councils of the four areas will receive state government
assistance to repair roads, bridges, water bores and other public
infrastructure.
Residents and local businesses that have suffered damage will also be
eligible for financial help.
”Conditions are now easing, following heavy rains ... that resulted in
minor to moderate main-river flooding and localised flash flooding,” Mr
Whan said.
The State Emergency Service (SES) says the flood waters will subside
within the next 24 hours, restoring access to the isolated communities.
But there is concern for about 200 residents near the Orara River at
Coutts Crossing, which is expected to flood on Saturday afternoon, SES
spokesman Steve Delaney said.
Areas of Coffs Harbour were pelted with 528mm of rain, and further south
at Bellingen, up to 351mm was recorded in the 48 hours to early this
(AEDT) morning, the NSW SES said.
The Bellinger river peaked at 7.2m just before midnight on Friday,
bringing moderate flooding to the town of Bellingen, where its
population of 2900 remains isolated.
The 500 residents at Darkwood on the upper Bellinger were also cut off
along with another 500 people on the upper Kalang River.
Several local roads remain closed and the SES have urged people to delay
non-essential travel to the areas until conditions improve.
The SES has received more than 400 requests for assistance, relating to
rescue, evacuation and sandbagging of properties.
Homes have suffered leaking roofs and damage caused by fallen trees and
branches.
Conditions have eased on Saturday over the affected areas with more rain
forecast for Saturday and Sunday.