The NSW State Emergency Service (SES) has issued a dire warning to Port Macquarie residents, declaring it too late to evacuate as intense rainfall cuts off escape routes. Meanwhile, Sydney is preparing for a powerful downpour from the same weather system that has already triggered deadly flooding across the Mid North Coast.
Some towns have seen months’ worth of rain fall in just a few days. One person has been confirmed dead, and authorities hold “grave fears” for three others still missing amid the rising floodwaters.
Flood levels in Port Macquarie are rising rapidly, prompting the SES to urge those who haven’t yet left to stay put.
“It is now too late to leave safely as evacuation routes are likely to be cut off,” the SES warned.
Residents are being advised to “seek shelter in a sturdy raised structure that can be safely accessed.”
The agency also cautioned that those staying put may be stranded without electricity, water, or essential services — and that conditions could become too dangerous for rescue operations.
The Bureau of Meteorology has announced that the intense rain band is now shifting south toward Sydney and eastern Victoria.
Meteorologist Angus Hines reported that rainfall was intensifying in the area between Grafton and Coffs Harbour, extending as far south as the Illawarra region. Heavy rain is expected to continue around Coffs Harbour and Port Macquarie as the system progresses southward.
