NSW Braces for Continued Flooding Amid Unstable Weather

4

In a recent social media post, the bureau announced, "Due to the potential for major flooding in North Richmond, we have elevated the Hawkesbury-Nepean flood warning." The message highlights an impending risk that necessitates urgent attention.

The bureau's sixth flood warning indicates the region saw moderate rainfall amounts of up to 160mm within the past 24 hours, ending at 9 am today.

"Moderate flooding is already taking place along the Upper Nepean River," the notice stated, releasing this information at about 2 pm. "Additional rainfall is expected on Friday, but a gradual decrease is likely later in the day. Major flooding could transpire along the Hawkesbury and Lower Nepean River sectors."

The Insurance Council of Australia is keeping a close eye on the evolving situation, given the recent intense rainfall. "Our members are on standby to assist affected customers and manage claims as required," a spokesperson commented. "Even if you are unsure of the full extent of the damage, it is advisable to reach out to your insurer to initiate the claims process."

At this point, the full ramifications of this wet weather event are undetermined, but more clarity is expected in the days ahead, the spokesperson added.

On a somewhat positive note, the Bureau of Meteorology has lifted its severe weather warning for communities in the Illawarra and South Coast districts.

The lifting notice, issued around 3 pm, explained, "Heavy rainfall has reduced in the Illawarra and South Coast, though showers persist." The surface trough responsible for last night's heavy rainfall has weakened, moving south yet still causing moderate rainfall in parts of southeastern NSW and the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) through the remainder of Friday.

Reflecting on the week's weather patterns, senior meteorologist Angus Hines noted in a video update that while rain is diminishing in NSW, the Hawkesbury region is not yet out of danger. "Moderate flooding is predicted through Friday and possibly into Saturday morning before river levels decline, given the lack of further forecasted rainfall," he remarked.

The NSW State Emergency Service has been highly active, responding to 447 incidents and performing 49 flood rescues since midnight. The heavy downpours have resulted in flash flooding across the South Coast, Illawarra, and Sydney metropolitan zones.

Acting assistant commissioner Dallas Burnes praised the efforts of the flood rescue teams, stating, "Our teams have been working under extremely tough conditions across the southeast of the state through the night. Our volunteers will continue to respond until the situation stabilizes."

Published:Saturday, 8th Jun 2024
Source: Paige Estritori

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Clear

National Climate Risk Assessment Unveils Growing Insurance Challenges

17 Sep 2025: Paige Estritori

The Australian government has unveiled its inaugural National Climate Risk Assessment alongside a comprehensive National Adaptation Plan, highlighting the heightened impact of natural disasters on insurance accessibility across the nation. With an urgent call to action, the government acknowledges the impending climate threats and commits to intensifying efforts towards emission reduction. - read more

ASIC Extends Relief on Distribution Rules for Insurance Providers

16 Sep 2025: Paige Estritori

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has announced an extension of the exemption allowing general insurance providers to forego appointing product distributors as authorised representatives. This decision comes with the introduction of a new legislative instrument, 2025/520, which renews the previous framework, originally established under instrument 2015/682. The relief will now continue until August 27, 2030. - read more

Cyber Insurance Becomes Essential Amid Rising Digital Threats

12 Sep 2025: Paige Estritori

The recent cyberattack on Fortnum Private Wealth, accompanied by ASIC's legal action, has spotlighted the critical risks cyber threats pose to financial advice companies in Australia. With digital integration intensifying across the finance sector, the owner of Fortnum, Entireti, plans to defend the case, underscoring the necessity for ongoing vigilance in cybersecurity measures. - read more

Swiss Re Foresees Rising Premiums Amid Increasing Global Risks

10 Sep 2025: Paige Estritori

In a comprehensive analysis, Swiss Re Institute predicts that global property and casualty insurance premiums will rise in tandem with GDP over the upcoming decade. This growth is driven by amplified natural catastrophe losses, asset accumulation, and heightened economic and litigation claims inflation. The institute's report outlines the evolving insurance landscape amid increasing global risks. - read more

Insurance Council of Australia Assists NSW Flood Claimants

09 Sep 2025: Paige Estritori

In response to the devastating floods that swept across New South Wales' Mid North Coast in May, the Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) is taking proactive steps to support the affected residents. Insurers, organised by the ICA, will be meeting with flood victims in Kempsey, Taree, and Port Macquarie to provide guidance and support as they navigate their insurance claims. - read more

Ombudsman Upholds Policyholder’s Claim Despite Fraud Allegations

08 Sep 2025: Paige Estritori

A motor insurance policyholder has won a significant dispute over fraud allegations, with the industry ombudsman ruling in favour of a payout following a controversial car accident claim. The case revolved around an incident where the claimant's wife crashed at an intersection one evening, reportedly failing to yield. The lack of photographic evidence due to shock and subsequent involvement of towing services complicated matters. - read more

Click for more Insurance News