Camden has copped it again, the third time this year large parts of the historic township have gone under water.
Residents there are among more than 30,000 people in the Hawkesbury-Nepean impacted by flood evacuation orders and warnings in the past 24 hours.
Seven evacuation centres have been established and one large animal centre, including one in Narellan, the Family & Community Centre, Queen Street.
NSW SES has also issued a fresh reminder to avoid unnecessary travel and stay out of flood waters.
While conditions are set to ease over the next 24 hours, the Bureau of Meteorology is warning damaging winds and heavy rainfall will impact river rises, flash flooding and potential landslides.
SES members have responded to about 4297 requests for assistance since the start of the event, with 141 rescues taking place.
Acting Deputy Commissioner Nicole Hogan is urging affected communities to avoid unnecessary travel.
“The majority of our rescues have been cars in floodwater, with NSW SES members also supporting the community through medical transports and the safe removal of animals,” Mr Hogan said.
“If you are in a flood-prone area and undertaking travel that is not for essential purposes, we ask that you re-consider your travel plans.
“Our message is simple: if it’s flooded, forget it.”
NSW SES are also warning the community to be aware of trees falling due to saturated grounds.
“Watch out for branches and fallen power lines, and be aware that there may be potential landslides where we have seen heavy rain,” Mr Hogan said.
Due to the current floods, severe weather conditions and impact on the grounds, Camden Council has today made the difficult decision to cancel this weekend’s Winterfest Camden.
Members of the public seeking emergency assistance during a flood or storm should call the NSW State Emergency Service on 132 500 or visit their website www.ses.nsw.gov.au.
For the latest weather warnings, please visit the Bureau of Meteorology website: http://www.bom.gov.au/.
For the latest road closures, please visit www.livetraffic.com.au
