As dark, ominous clouds rolled towards Wagga, emergency services urged residents to use common sense, stay indoors and stay safe.
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A severe thunderstorm warning was issued for much of the Riverina, with storms producing heavy rainfall, potentially large hailstones and damaging winds.
“Locations which may be affected include Wagga, Young, West Wyalong, Narrandera, Holbrook and Lockhart,” the Bureau of Meteorology said.
We say it again and again: ‘never enter flood water’.
- Jon Gregory
The BoM issued a severe weather warning on Monday, predicting heavy rain would impact the region on Tuesday and Wednesday.
Rainfall until midday Wednesday:
Wagga – 8.8mm
Narrandera – 9.8mm
Griffith – 19.2mm
Deniliquin – 12.8mm
Temora – 12.2mm
Yanco – 6.6mm
A number of homes and businesses reported damage to property and cars were stranded in water from flash flooding.
NSW SES region controller Jon Gregory reminded children and parents storm drains could be deadly.
Mr Gregory – also a Tumut volunteer – urged residents to be aware of the dangers when walking, playing or riding near storm drains across the city.
“There are quite a number around Wagga,” Mr Gregory said.
“We say it again and again: ‘Never enter flood water’.”
Mr Gregory also said increased wind across recent weeks may have filled gutters, causing blockages that could lead to water backing into the home.
For emergency help in floods and storms call 132 500.
If the emergency is life threatening call triple-0 immediately.
The State Emergency Service advises that people should:
- Move your car under cover or away from trees.
- Secure or put away loose items around your house, yard and balcony.
- Keep at least 8 metres away from fallen power lines or objects that may be energised, such as fences.
- Report fallen power lines to either Ausgrid on 131 388, or Endeavour Energy on 131 003 or Essential Energy on 132 080, as shown on your power bill.
- Keep clear of creeks and storm drains.
- Don't walk, ride your bike or drive through flood water.
- If you are trapped by flash flooding, seek refuge in the highest available place and ring 000 if you need rescue.
- Unplug computers and appliances.
- Avoid using the phone during the storm.
- Stay indoors away from windows, and keep children and pets indoors as well.
