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10.30pm: That’s all from us. Please stay safe as wet weather is expected to continue overnight. Remember - if it’s flooded, forget it.
A severe weather warning remains current for the Illawarra on Sunday night as the east coast low approaches. Here’s a quick recap of the warning:
- DAMAGING WINDS averaging up to 65 km/h, with peak gusts in excess of 90 km/h, are currently being experienced in coastal areas south of the low, and are expected to continue overnight on Sunday.
- LOCALLY DESTRUCTIVE WIND GUSTS to 125 km/h are also possible along the coastal fringe on Sunday night as the low passes close by.
- HEAVY RAIN is likely to cause FLASH FLOODING on Sunday night. Widespread rain totals of 100mm are expected, with local areas possibly receiving over 200mm. Hourly rain rates up to 70mm may be experienced.
- ABNORMALLY HIGH TIDES, which may cause sea water flooding of low lying areas, are forecast for the entire NSW coast. The high tide was at 8:30pm on Sunday, when water levels were expected to exceed the highest tide of the year.
- VERY HEAVY SURF may lead to localised damage and coastal erosion. Beach conditions in these areas will be dangerous and people should stay well away from the surf and surf exposed areas.
Meanwhile, Shoalhaven river basins are included in the 20 flood warnings currently in force across NSW.
If you need assistance during the wild weather, please call the SES on 132 500.
Illawarra SES updates can be found by following @NSWSESISR on Twitter. Use @NSWSES for statewide updates on Twitter or visit the SES website.
Stay up to date with the latest weather warnings at bom.gov.au/nsw/warnings or follow @BOM_NSW on Twitter.
10.20pm: We’ve just added some pictures of the king tide’s arrival at Wollongong Harbour into the gallery above.
10.05pm: Some travel advice after roads were flooded as a result of Sunday night’s king tide.
10pm: Buses are still replacing South Coast Line trains between Wollongong and Bomaderry and between Port Kembla and Wollongong due to the weather.
Train services between Waterfall and Thirroul resumed earlier on Sunday night.
9.55pm: Major road closures on Sunday night:
- Burrill Lake: Princes Highway closed between Balmoral Road and McDonald Parade
- Berry: Princes Highway closed in both directions, diversions are in place. Northbound traffic is being diverted via Cambewarra Road, Meroo Street, Bolong Road, Crooked River Road, Fern Street, Belinda St to return to the Princes Hwy at Gerringong.Southbound traffic is being diverted via Belinda Street, Fern Street, Crooked River Road, Bolong Road to return to the Princes Highway at Nowra
- Albion Park Rail: Illawarra Highway blocked between Princes Highway and Tongarra Road
- Robertson: Illawarra Highway closed at Jamberoo Mountain Road
- Wilton: Wilton Road at Broughton Pass closed due to a landslide
9.50pm: The Shellharbour SES unit has warned road conditions in the area surrounding Lake Illawarra are extremely hazardous following the arrival of the king tide.
Crews have responded to a number of flood rescues in the area in the last hour.
Meanwhile, 15.2mm of rain has just fallen in less than half an hour at Bellambi Point as the east coast low approaches.
9.45pm: We’ve been asked about whether Dapto High School will be operating on Monday given the flooded roads in the area.
The school posted on Facebook earlier on Sunday that it would provide an update on its page between 6am and 7am on Monday “in the unlikely event the school is closed”.
“We cannot answer individual direct messages but please know the school and access roads are being monitored and a decision will be made in the morning with an eye on the forecast,” the post said.
9.40pm: More incredible footage of the king tide washing over Wollongong Harbour on Sunday night.
9.30pm: Just in – the picture below, from Mercury reader Donna Redfern, shows a flooded View Street, near the lake foreshore at Lake Illawarra, following tonight’s king tide. Check out a gallery of readers’ pictures of this weekend’s extreme weather.
9.15pm: The Mercury’s Greg Ellis was at Wollongong Harbour for the arrival of the king tide a short time ago.
8.55pm: Here we go again! Heavy rain again starting to fall in Wollongong’s CBD ahead of the approaching east coast low.
8.35pm: The east coast low bearing down on the Illawarra is currently off the coast of Sydney, the Bureau of Meteorology says.
The low is expected to continue moving south to the Illawarra/South Coast overnight on Sunday before gradually moving east away from the NSW coast during Monday.
A severe weather warning remains current for the Illawarra and South Coast:
DAMAGING WINDS averaging up to 65 km/h, with peak gusts in excess of 90 km/h, are currently being experienced in coastal areas south of the low, and are expected to continue overnight. LOCALLY DESTRUCTIVE WIND GUSTS to 125 km/h are also possible along the coastal fringe on Sunday night as the low passes close by. Winds will ease and turn northwesterly after the low passes.
HEAVY RAIN is likely to cause FLASH FLOODING in the warning area tonight, contracting to southern parts overnight. Widespread rain totals of 100mm are expected, with local areas possibly receiving over 200mm. Hourly rain rates up to 70mm may be experienced.
ABNORMALLY HIGH TIDES, which may cause sea water flooding of low lying areas, are forecast for the entire coast. The next high tide was at 8:30pm tonight, where water levels were likely to exceed the highest tide of the year. Water levels in Sydney were expected to be significantly higher than last night's (Saturday's) high tide and higher than the June 2012 East Coast Low.
VERY HEAVY SURF may lead to localised damage and coastal erosion. Beach conditions in these areas will be dangerous and people should stay well away from the surf and surf exposed areas.
Rain totals from 9am to 8pm Sunday include Robertson 247mm, Moruya 172mm, Wattamolla (Kangaroo Valley) 156mm.
Average waves heights in excess of 5 metres have been recorded along the NSW coast, with highest waves exceeding 12 metres.
8.20pm: A Flood evacuation warning has been issued to residents in the Picton and Wollondilly area.
The NSW SES says significant rainfall over an extended period has caused overland and flash flooding in the area.
Water from Stone Quarry Creek is backing up at Argyle Street, Picton. Residents in this area are advised to prepare to move to high ground.
The SES is currently conducting numerous flood rescues in the area.
8.15pm: South Coast Line train services have resumed between Waterfall and Thirroul. Buses are still replacing trains between Wollongong and Bomaderry and between Port Kembla and Wollongong due to the weather.
8pm: It’s almost like the calm before the storm. The wind and driving rain has eased in the Wollongong CBD as the Illawarra awaits the arrival of Sunday night’s high tide – due at 8:30pm
Water levels are set to exceed the highest tide of the year.
A short time ago, the surf was already washing all the way up the car park in Austinmer beach.
Stay with us for updates as the east coast low approaches the Illawarra on Sunday night.
7.40pm: While most of us were inside over the weekend, snug and warm watching the rain cascade down the window pane, others were out there in the cold and wet helping those in need.
The Mercury says thank you to those out there on the weekend doing their best when the weather was at its worst.
6.30pm: You can see the movement of the east coast low in this short clip.
The low is expected to be centred near the Sydney coast later on Sunday evening, shift to the Illawarra/South Coast overnight before moving gradually away to the east during Monday.
6.15pm: Tony Markham has shared some of his footage of the wild weather around North Wollongong and Wollongong Harbour via Youtube.
6pm: It’s still raining across the Illawarra and South Coast. Let’s take a look at where the rain has fallen on Sunday.
Illawarra
- Albion Park - 37.4mm
- Bellambi Point - 29.4mm
- Kiama - 28.8mm
- Moss Vale - 95.2mm
- Robertson - 184mm (to 5pm)
- Nowra - 84.4mm
South Coast
- Bega - 44.6mm
- Merimbula - 36.8mm
- Moruya - 129mm (to 5pm)
- Ulladulla - 18.8mm
5.55pm: The Bureau of Meteorology has just updated its severe weather warning. It reads as follows:
An East Coast Low, located off the coast east of Newcastle at 5pm, is moving south. It is expected to be centred near the Sydney coast later this evening, continuing to the Illawarra/South Coast overnight before moving gradually away to the east during Monday.
DAMAGING WINDS averaging up to 65 km/h, with peak gusts in excess of 90 km/h, are currently being experienced in coastal areas south of the low, and are expected to continue overnight. LOCALLY DESTRUCTIVE WIND GUSTS to 125 km/h are also possible along the coastal fringe this evening as the low passes close by. Winds will ease and turn northwesterly after the low passes.
HEAVY RAIN is likely to cause FLASH FLOODING in the warning area this evening, contracting to southern parts overnight. Widespread rain totals of 100mm are expected, with local areas possibly receiving over 200mm. Hourly rain rates up to 70mm may be experienced.
ABNORMALLY HIGH TIDES, which may cause sea water flooding of low lying areas, are forecast for the entire coast. The next high tide is at 8:30pm this evening, where water levels will exceed the highest tide of the year. Water levels in Sydney are expected to be significantly higher than last night's (Saturday's) high tide and will be higher than the June 2012 East Coast Low.
VERY HEAVY SURF may lead to localised damage and coastal erosion. Beach conditions in these areas will be dangerous and people should stay well away from the surf and surf exposed areas.
Rain totals from 9am to 5pm today include Robertson 184mm, Moruya 129mm, Wattamolla 127mm, Parramatta (Sydney) 113mm.
Wind gusts today include North head (Sydney) 98km/h, Sydney Harbour 95km/h, Bellambi 96 km/h, Montague Island 109 km/h.
Average waves heights in excess of 5 metres have been recorded along the NSW coast, with highest waves exceeding 12 metres.
5.50pm: An important message from the crew at Unanderra fire station after a busy day.
Thanks to the Unanderra firies and all the other emergency service personnel who braved – and continue to brave – treacherous conditions to help when needed.
Please heed the message below – if it’s flooded forget it, and if you don’t have to be on the road please stay home.
5.40pm: Latest road and rail conditions.
ROADS
- ROBERTSON: Illawarra Highway closed in both directions at Jamberoo Mountain Road due to flooding.
- ALBION PARK RAIL: Illawarra Highway closed in both directions between Princes Highway and Tongarra Road due to flooding.
- TOWRADGI: One of three northbound lanes on Memorial Drive closed approaching Towradgi Road due to road damage.
- WINDANG: Two of three southbound lanes closed on Windang Road at Boundary Road due to flooding.
- BERRY: Princes Highway closed in both directions at Berry. Northbound traffic is being diverted via Cambewarra Road, Meroo Street, Bolong Road, Crooked River Road, Fern Street, Belinda St to return to the Princes Hwy at Gerringong.Southbound traffic is being diverted via Belinda Street, Fern Street, Crooked River Road, Bolong Road to return to the Princes Highway at Nowra.
- DOUGLAS PARK: Douglas Park Drive is closed in both directions at the Nepean River.
- ROYAL NATIONAL PARK: Audley Road closed in both directions at Audley Weir
Wollongong closed roads (as of 3pm):
- Swan Street, Wollongong (near Kembla and Evans streets)
- Springhill Road at Swam Street, Wollongong
- Bong Bong Road, Horsley, both sides of railway crossing
- Harry Graham Drive, Kembla Heights
- Carrington Street / Lawrence Street, Woonona
- Pioneer Drive, Woonona
- Northcliffe Drive, Warrawong, near Illawarra Yacht Club
- Otford Weir, Otford
- Darkes Road and West Dapto Road, West Dapto
- Princes Highway, Woonona, from Russell to Campbell street
- Gallipoli Street, Port Kembla
Wollongong water-affected roads (as of 3pm):
- Montague Street, North Wollongong
- Auburn Street / Bridge Street, Coniston
- Sierra Drive, Horsley
- O’Briens Road, Figtree
- Gladstone Street, Coniston
- Cabbage Tree Lane, Fairy Meadow
- Flinders Street, Wollongong (northbound)
- North Marshall Mount Road
- Carters Lane / Elliotts Road, Fairy Meadow
- Cleveland Road, Dapto
- Lakelands Drive, Dapto
- Windang / Primbee (multiple roads)
Shoalhaven CIty Council roads closed:
- Quinn’s Lane South Nowra
- Bolong Rd and Coomea Street
- Highway at Berry (north of Coolangatta Rd)
- Berry Street (near Albatross Rd roundabout)
- Edwards Ave Bomaderry
- Wallace Street cross with Knapp Street (power lines down)
- Hockey’s Lane Cambewarra
- Albatross Road- East of Flinders Road
Shoalhaven CIty Council roads with water over them:
- Callala Beach Rd and Forest Rd
- Bolong Rd (north of Coolangatta Rd- south bound)
- Hillcrest Ave
RAIL
- WOLLONGONG – BOMADERRY: Buses replace trains in both directions due to heavy rainfall and local flooding
- WATERFALL – THIRROUL: Buses replacing trains in both directions due to heavy rainfall and local flooding
- WOLLONGONG – PORT KEMBLA: All services suspended between Wollongong and Port Kembla in both directions due to heavy rainfall. Road closures mean it isn’t possible for a replacement bus service to operate. Delay travel if possible.
5.30pm: The Live Traffic NSW website is working again after earlier technical problems.
5.25pm: Illawarra Stormchasers have predicted winds in the region should hit their peak about 7pm, with rain to continue until about 10pm. We’ll update what’s happening on the roads and rail shortly.
5.20pm: “There is a real risk that the high tide at 8pm will see an increase in the response to the flooding because of the amount of water we are going to see back up”.
The highest tide of the year on Sunday night, at the end of a weekend of torrential rain, has the SES on high alert, Greg Ellis reports.
5.10pm: The focus of the east coast low is now shifting to central parts of the NSW coast, Simon Lewis from the Bureau of Meteorology says.
“We’ve just seen a fairly heavy pulse of rain move through the Sydney basin and it’s now currently moving through south-west Sydney and the Southern Highlands,” Mr Lewis said during an SES update at 4.30pm.
“As a result of that, we’ve seen some fairly heavy falls building up, with Robertson on the Southern Highlands having received 150mm already today.
“As the low continues to track southwards, we’re expecting it to reach just offshore from Sydney later this evening and then it will move further south and sort of stall somewhere off the South Coast overnight tonight.
“Anywhere south of that low will continue to see damaging winds, possibly destructive winds on the coastal fringe, very heavy rainfall and dangerous surf.”
4.45pm: The Live Traffic website (www.livetraffic.com) is currently unavailable due to technical problems.
The Live Traffic apps are also affected and are not showing up-to-date incidents and information.
To stay updated, visit the Live Traffic NSW Facebook page at www.facebook.com/livetrafficnsw.
There are also two Twitter feeds for Live Traffic that you can follow:
Sydney - www.twitter.com/LiveTrafficSyd (@LiveTrafficSyd)
NSW Regional - www.twitter.com/LiveTrafficNSW (@LiveTrafficNSW
Meanwhile, the size of this live weather blog means updates are taking their time to go live.
Please keep up to date via the Mercury Facebook page and @illawarramerc or @andrewrpearson on Twitter.
For all emergency information throughout the night, follow the SES (ses.nsw.gov.au) and the Bureau of Meteorology (bom.gov.au).
4.40pm: Endeavour Energy has restored power to 60,000 customers in the Shoalhaven, affected by an earlier major transmission line fault.
3.55pm: A MINOR FLOOD WARNING has been issued for the Shoalhaven River at Nowra and Terara.
The Bureau of Meteorology says average of 100 millimetres of rain has fallen in the Shoalhaven River basin during the 24 hours to 2pm Sunday, with up to 300 millimetres falling closer to the coast.
Further heavy rain is forecast for the next 12 to 24 hours, which is expected to cause minor flooding in the Shoalhaven River basin during Monday.
“At this stage it is not possible to predict the flood peak because of uncertainty over how much more rain will fall,” the warning said.
Predicted river heights/flows at Nowra (AHD)
- exceed minor flood level (2.3 metres) around 7am Monday [06/06/16]
- with forecast rainfall, further rises possible
Predicted river heights/flows at Terara
- exceed minor flood level (2.2 metres) around 7am Monday [06/06/16]
- with forecast rainfall, further rises possible
For emergency assistance call the SES on 132 500. For life threatening emergencies, call 000 immediately.
----
A MINOR FLOOD WARNING has also been issued for the St Georges Basin at Island Point Road and Sussex Inlet.
The BOM says an average of 200 millimetres of rain has fallen during the two days to 2pm Sunday in the St Georges River Basin. Further rain is forecast tonight.
This rainfall is expected to cause minor flooding in the St Georges Basin at Island Point Road and Sussex Inlet. At this stage it is not possible to predict the flood peak because of uncertainty over how much more rain will fall.
Predicted river heights/flows at Island Point Road
- with forecast rainfall may reach minor flood level (1.2 metres) around midday Monday (6/6/16)
- with further rises possible
Predicted river heights/flows at Island Sussex Inlet
- reach 1.0 metres with minor flooding around 9 pm Sunday Night with the high tide
- with further rises possible
3.45pm: More than 100 artworks were taken to drier ground after the roof peeled off the Egg & Dart Gallery at Thirroul on Sunday.
Gallery owner Aaron Fell-Fracasso was called to the premises around 9am, and said community members pitched in to help him.
“The roof had started to roll off like a sardine can,” he said.
“The SES secured it but it was still open to the elements, and water was getting into the upstairs businesses and into the gallery.
“Thankfully a whole bunch of residents and business owners help me to empty the gallery and I was able to get the artworks to a safe, dry location.”
3.25pm: Heavy rain, big winds, soft ground, flash flooding and high tides are keeping emergency crews busy on Sunday afternoon.
Greg Ellis reports the SES has urged people in the Illawarra and South Coast to stay off the roads after dozens of vehicle rescues.
3.15pm: About 60,000 homes and businesses in the Shoalhaven are without power as heavy rain and strong winds take their toll on the region’s electricity network.
An Endeavour Energy spokeswoman said, although the exact cause was not known at this stage, there had been a fault on the major transmission lines between Endeavour Energy’s Mount Terry and Shoalhaven transmission substations.
3pm: The Illawarra Police Rescue Squad says simple accidents can become that little bit more dangerous in wild weather and advise motorists to delay their trip until conditions improve.
2.45pm: The Illawarra has already copped a battering, but it appears the east coast low responsible for the wild weather is yet to fully unleash its wrath on the region.
The Bureau of Meteorology has updated its severe weather warning, which covers the Illawarra and South Coast, and said the low was centred off the Mid North Coast at 2pm and moving south.
“It is expected to be centred near the Sydney coast this evening, continuing to the Illawarra/South Coast overnight before moving gradually away to the east during Monday,” the bureau’s warning said.
“The highest winds and heaviest rainfall will strongly depend on the position of the low.”
SEVERE WEATHER WARNING (issued 2.28pm Sunday)
DAMAGING WINDS averaging up to 65 km/h, with peak gusts in excess of 90 km/h, are currently being experienced in coastal areas south of the low. LOCALLY DESTRUCTIVE WIND GUSTS to 125 km/h are also possible along the coastal fringe as the low passes close by. Winds will ease and turn northwesterly after the low passes.
HEAVY RAIN is likely to cause FLASH FLOODING in the warning area south of about Taree today, contracting to the southern half of the coast overnight.
Widespread rain totals of 100mm are expected, with local areas possibly receiving over 200mm. Hourly rain rates up to 70mm may be experienced.
ABNORMALLY HIGH TIDES, which may cause sea water flooding of low lying areas, are forecast for the entire coast.
The next high tide is at 8:30pm this evening, where water levels are expected to exceed the highest tide of the year.
Water levels in Sydney at this time are likely to be higher than during the June 2012 East Coast Low.
VERY HEAVY SURF may lead to localised damage and coastal erosion. Beach conditions in these areas will be dangerous and people should stay well away from the surf and surf exposed areas.
Rain totals from 9am to 2pm today include Robertson 119mm, Wattamolla 86mm, Frenchs Forest (Sydney) 85mm.
Wind gusts today include North Head (Sydney) 98km/h, Bellambi 96 km/h, Montague Island 109 km/h.
Average waves heights in excess of five metres have been recorded along the NSW coast, with highest waves exceeding 12 metres.
2.35pm: Due to the large amount of rain, and roads around the area being closed, Wollongong City Council will close its waste depot at Whytes Gully early on Sunday.
2.30pm: Watch as SES crews rescue horses from rising flood water on Darkes Road at Dapto earlier on Sunday.
2.20pm: More than 8000 Endeavour Energy customers remain without power, as electricity crews work through treacherous conditions to repair downed power lines.
Power has been restored to about 10,000 homes and businesses since 10.30am on Sunday.
However, 8200 customers remain without power as repairs are carried out in the following areas:
- Illawarra: Thirroul (194) and Farmborough Heights (101)
- Shoalhaven: Nowra (1307), Bangalee (271) and Tapitallee (202).
- Southern Highlands: Hill Top (643), Burrawang (244), Robertson (231), Wildes Meadow (182), Balmoral (168), Kangaloon (104) and Fitzroy Falls (99).
- South-western Sydney: St Helens Park (592 customers), Carramar (554), Wedderburn (240) and Lansvale (120).
Emergency response centres have been opened at Parramatta, Narellan, Springhill, Kings Park, Picton, Shellharbour, Moss Vale, Ulladulla and Nowra to coordinate repairs to the network in these areas,” an Endeavour Energy spokeswoman said.
“The severe weather conditions are expected to continue into this afternoon and this evening which may cause further damage to our network.
“As we have received multiple reports of fallen power lines on our network, the public are urged to stay well clear and report this to us by calling 131 003.”
2.15pm: Motorists on Memorial Drive should exercise caution on approach to Towradgi Road – damage to the road has caused an uneven surface.
One of three northbound lanes are closed.
The roadway between lanes one and two has been damaged.
2.10pm: We mentioned earlier Wollongong couple Justin and Jema Craig woke early on Sunday morning to find water lapping at their front. Here’s a video of what they saw. Click to read the full story.
2pm: Any rail commuters who are Sydney-bound are advised the T4 Eastern Suburbs & Illawarra line is partially closed between Edgecliff and Bondi Junction in both directions due to a tree caught in overhead wiring at Edgecliff. Buses are being organised to operate a limited replacement service but are yet to begin operating.
Closer to home, the South Coast Line is partially closed between Waterfall and Thirroul, Wollongong and Port Kembla and Wollongong and Bomaderry due to heavy rainfall and urgent signal equipment repairs at various locations.
Buses are replacing trains between Wollongong and Bomaderry and Waterfall and Thirroul but, due to flooding, are unable to run between Wollongong and Port Kembla.
1.55pm: Just in – emergency services are keeping a close eye on the building that houses Pizza Hut in Woonona, where part of the roof has been peeled off in Sunday’s strong winds.
The incident has closed the Princes Highway near the intersection of Russell Street.
1.45pm: South Coast flood alert – a minor to moderate flood warning has been issued for the Bega River.
The Bureau of Meteorology says 100 to 200 millimetres of rain has fallen during in the two days to midday Sunday across the Bega River valley. Further heavy rainfall is forecast for the next 12 to 24 hours.
“This rainfall is expected to cause minor flooding at Bega North later today with further rises above moderate flood level expected overnight,” the BOM warning says.
“At this stage it is not possible to predict the flood peak because of uncertainty over how much more rain will fall.”
Predicted river heights/flows at Bega North:
- exceed minor flood Level (4.5 metres) about 6pm Sunday
- with forecast rainfall may reach moderate flood level (7.0 metres) about 5am Monday
- further rises possible
A more general flood watch remains current for the following river basins.
- Shoalhaven - minor to moderate flooding
- St Georges Basin - minor to moderate flooding
- Moruya - moderate to major flooding
- Bega - moderate to major flooding
A flood watch means people living or working along rivers and creeks must monitor the latest weather forecasts and warnings and be ready to move to higher ground should flooding develop.
1.35pm: Wollongong couple Justin and Jema Craig woke up early on Sunday morning to find water lapping at their front door. Click the image below or here to read the full story.
1.20pm: Check out this video, taken by the Kiama SES unit just east of Jamberoo on Sunday morning.
1.15pm: To say it’s wet out there would be an understatement. Here’s a look at the latest NSW rain radar, thanks to Weatherzone.
1pm: Update on affected roads from Lake Illawarra police.
- Unanderra: Princes Highway, Five Islands Road, Glastonbury Avenue
- Cringila: Five Islands Road, Springhill Road
- Warrawong: Northcliffe Drive between King and Griffin Street
- Berkeley: Wilkinson Street, Nottingham Street, Lancashire Street
- Kembla Grange: Princes Highway near race course
- Dapto: Lakelands Drive, Bong Bong Road, Station Road, Princes Hwy & Cormack Ave, Darkes Roa
- Kanahooka: Edgeworth Avenue
- Horsley: Sierra Drive
- Albion Park Rail: Princes Highway near interchange and Station Road, Illawarra Highway, Croome Road, Tongarra Road
- Albion Park: Taylor Road, Tongarra Road near police station, Illawarra Highway
- Macquarie Pass: Illawarra Highway (causeway flooding and trees down)
- Jamberoo Mountain: Jamberoo Mountain Road (trees across road)
- Oak Flats: Lake Entrance Road/Government Road, Madden Street (power lines down)
- Windang: Windang Road – two northbound lanes and one southbound affected
- Minnamurra: Riverside Drive, Swamp Road
- Gerringong: Fern Street, Princes Highway
12.55pm: Endeavour Energy says its crews are now working to restore power to around 18,000 homes and businesses across the South Coast, Illawarra and Southern Highlands.
The main damage has been caused by trees and large branches falling over power lines. Endeavour Energy has received multiple reports of fallen power lines on its network.
“Emergency crews will work to make these sites safe for the public and emergency workers before completing repairs, patrolling the line for final checks and then restoring supply,” an Endeavour Energy spokeswoman said.
“With weather conditions predicted to worsen throughout the afternoon, and expected localised flooding, Endeavour Energy is warning that repairs may take longer to complete and thanks people in advance for their patience this weekend.”
12.50pm: Latest road closures:
ROADS
- ROBERTSON: Illawarra Highway closed in both directions at Jamberoo Mountain Road due to flooding.
- ALBION PARK RAIL: Illawarra Highway closed in both directions between Princes Highway and Tongarra Road due to flooding.
- BERRY: Princes Highway in both directions at Berry.
- DOUGLAS PARK: Douglas Park Drive is closed at Douglas Park.
Wollongong closed roads
- Swan Street, Wollongong (near Kembla and Evans streets)
- Bong Bong Road, Horsley, both sides of railway crossing
- Cleveland Road, Dapto, both sides of rail bridge / Dapto High
- West Dapto Road
- Darkes Road, Dapto, both sides of road bridge
- Northcliffe Drive, Warrawong, at Illawarra Yacht Club
- Harry Graham Drive, Mount Kembla
- Auburn Street / Bridge Street, Coniston
- Carington Street / Lawrence Street, Woonona
- Otford Weir, Otford
- Springhill Road, Wollongong, near Swan Street
Wollongong water-affected roads
- Montague Street, North Wollongong
- Sierra Drive, Horsley
- O’Briens Road, Figtree
- Gladstone Street, Coniston
- Cabbage Tree Lane, Fairy Meadow
- Flinders Street, Wollongong (northbound)
RAIL
- WOLLONGONG – BOMADERRY: Buses replace trains in both directions due to heavy rainfall and local flooding
- WATERFALL – THIRROUL: Buses operating in both directions due to heavy rainfall and local flooding
- WOLLONGONG – PORT KEMBLA: All services suspended between Wollongong and Port Kembla in both directions due to heavy rainfall. Road closures mean it isn’t possible for a replacement bus service to operate. Delay travel if possible.
12.45pm: Still plenty of rain falling across the Illawarra and South Coast.
Rainfall totals between 9.30am and 12.30pm on Sunday
- Bellambi: 20.4mm
- Albion Park: 23.8mm
- Nowra: 50.2mm
- Bega: 20.6mm
12.30pm: A severe weather warning for destructive winds, heavy rainfall, abnormally high tides and damaging surf remains current for the Illawarra.
“We can expect those tides to impact with the heavy rainfall later this evening, which is causing great concern for the region,” incident controller Ashley Sullivan, from the NSW SES Illawarra South Coast Region, said.
A flood watch is current for the following river basins.
- Shoalhaven - minor to moderate flooding
- St Georges Basin - minor to moderate flooding
- Moruya - moderate to major flooding
- Bega - moderate to major flooding
A flood watch means people living or working along rivers and creeks must monitor the latest weather forecasts and warnings and be ready to move to higher ground should flooding develop.
Flood warnings will be issued if the minor flood level is expected to be exceeded.
12.15pm: Read the full story about the woman who was charged with drink-driving after she allegedly ignored road closures and drove into floodwaters at Albion Park on Sunday morning here.
12.10pm: The SES has responded to more than 800 requests for assistance in its Illawarra/South Coast region.
Ashley Sullivan, from the NSW SES Illawarra South Coast Region, says volunteer crews have completed 24 flood rescues in the Illawarra alone on Sunday morning.
“If it’s flooded, forget it,” Mr Sullivan said.
Watch the latest update live below.
12.05pm: NSW SES Acting Commissioner Greg Newton warns the weather system is “not done yet”.
“It’s moving south, it’s impacting on the Central Coast, the metropolitan area and the Illawarra at the moment,” he said.
“We’ll continue to see rainfall continue through the metropolitan area, the Illawarra, the South Coast and back up into the countryside behind that between now and midnight with rainfall continuing probably right into tomorrow.”
Watch the latest update live below.
Noon: LIVE WEATHER UPDATE from the NSWSES.
11.55am: The Mercury will live-stream an update from the SES on its Facebook page at noon.
11.35am: News just in – a woman has been charged with drink-driving after she allegedly ignored road closures and drove into floodwaters at Albion Park on Sunday morning.
Full story on the Mercury website shortly.
11.30am: The SES says the weather system is intensifying and they expect to get even busier over next few hours.
The Mercury will live-stream an update from the SES on our Facebook page at noon.
11.20am: Flooding has now closed the Princes Highway in both directions at Berry.
11.15am: Wollongong City Council has updated its list of local roads currently being affected by flooding.
Closed roads
- Swan Street, Wollongong (near Kembla and Evans streets)
- Bong Bong Road, Horsley, both sides of railway crossing
- Cleveland Road, Dapto, both sides of rail bridge / Dapto High
- West Dapto Road
- Darkes Road, Dapto, both sides of road bridge
- Northcliffe Drive, Warrawong, at Illawarra Yacht Club
- Harry Graham Drive, Mount Kembla
- Auburn Street / Bridge Street, Coniston
- Carington Street / Lawrence Street, Woonona
- Otford Weir, Otford
- Springhill Road, Wollongong, near Swan Street
Other water-affected roads
- Montague Street, North Wollongong
- Sierra Drive, Horsley
- O’Briens Road, Figtree
- Gladstone Street, Coniston
- Cabbage Tree Lane, Fairy Meadow
- Flinders Street, Wollongong (northbound)
11.10am: It might be wet in the Illawarra and South Coast right now, but check out some of these rainfall totals from the Mid North Coast.
11am: This probably doesn’t come as a surprise…
10.50am: Hearing reports the Illawarra Regional Airport at Albion Park Rail has been closed due to the extreme weather lashing the region.
On that note, if you are flying out of Sydney today, spare a thought for those on the tarmac helping you get where you need to go.
The same goes for everyone out there working to keep us safe – from the emergency service personnel responding to incidents to energy crews trying to restore power in hazardous conditions.
10.45am: Here’s a list of roads currently affected by flooding in Nowra, according to Shoalhaven City Council.
- Berry St (near Albatross Rd)
- Meroo Rd (northern end)
- Bolong Rd (near Coomea St)
- Edwards Ave and Quinns Lane
10.40am: It’s fairly wild out there and it looks like it’s just the start!
A 96km/h wind gust was recorded at Bellambi Point at 7.30am on Sunday, while an 80km/h gust was felt at Albion Park about the same time.
The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) updated its severe weather warning for the Illawarra a short time ago, saying the east coast low, currently off the Mid North Coast, is expected to be south of Sydney by early Sunday evening, then remain anchored off the South Coast Sunday night and into Monday morning.
“The highest winds and heaviest rainfall will strongly depend on the future position and movement of the low,” the BOM warning said.
DAMAGING WINDS averaging 60 to 65 km/h with peak gusts in excess of 90 km/h are currently being experienced along much of the coast. LOCALLY DESTRUCTIVE WINDS with gusts up to 125 km/h are also possible along central parts of the coast, extending to the south coast during on Sunday evening as the low passes close by.
The coastal fringe will be particularly under threat with this system. Winds are expected to ease and turn northwesterly as the low passes by.
HEAVY RAIN is expected, with rainfall totals of up to 100-200mm expected over central and southern parts of the coast, with 1-hourly rainfall rates of 30-70mm possible.
ABNORMALLY HIGH TIDES which may cause sea water flooding of low lying areas are likely along the entire coast. The next high tide will be at 8:30pm on Sunday, where water levels are expected to exceed the highest tide of the year.
VERY HEAVY SURF may lead to localised damage and coastal erosion. Beach conditions in these areas will be dangerous and people should stay well away from the surf and surf exposed areas.
10.25am: “So we now have pet swans down at Shearwater Blvd, Albion Park Rail,” writes Joshh Stone.
Do you have pictures or video of the wild weather at your place? We’d love to include them in our reader photo gallery.
10.15am: Traffic update.
ROADS
- ROBERTSON: Illawarra Highway closed in both directions at Jamberoo Mountain Road due to flooding.
- ALBION PARK RAIL: Illawarra Highway closed in both directions between Princes Highway and Tongarra Road due to flooding.
- WOLLONGONG: Traffic lights blacked out at the intersection of Kembla and Bourke streets
- APPIN: Appin Road closed northbound at Baden Powell Drive
There is also various reports of debris and blocked drains which are affecting the road network.
For Wollongong City Council road closures, please see 9.55am post below.
RAIL
- WOLLONGONG – BOMADERRY: Buses replace trains in both directions due to heavy rainfall and local flooding
- WATERFALL – THIRROUL: Buses operating in both directions due to heavy rainfall and local flooding
- WOLLONGONG – PORT KEMBLA: All services suspended between Wollongong and Port Kembla in both directions due to heavy rainfall. Delay travel if possible.
10am: About 12,800 homes and businesses in the Illawarra, South Coast and Southern Highlands are without power on Sunday morning
Endeavour Energy emergency crews are working to restore power, with storm recovery centres opened in Nowra, Unanderra and Moss Vale.
“Emergency crews will commence patrolling these areas to make safe before power is restored,” an Endeavour Energy spokeswoman said.
“Until these patrols are completed, it is not possible to give an estimate of the time it will take to restore supply to affected customers.”
Residents have been told to stay well clear of fallen power lines and call 131 003 to report them immediately.
“Customers who need power for medical equipment should check their battery supply and consider acting on their back up plan,” the spokeswoman said.
9.55am: Wollongong City Council has released a list of local roads currently being affected by flooding.
Closed roads
- Swan Street, Wollongong (near Kembla and Evans streets)
- Bong Bong Road, Horsley
- Harry Graham Drive, Mount Kembla
- Auburn Street / Bridge Street, Coniston
- Caring ton Street / Lawrence Street, Woonona
- Otford Weir, Otford
- Springhill Road, Wollongong, near Swan Street
Other water-affected roads:
- Montague Street, North Wollongong
- Sierra Drive, Horsley
- Northcliffe Drive near Griffin Street, Warrawong
- O’Briens Road, Figtree
- Gladstone Street, Coniston
- Cabbage Tree Lane, Fairy Meadow
- Flinders Street, Wollongong (northbound)
The council has warned with more large volumes of rain and flash flooding predicted today, conditions can change very quickly and further roads may become inundated.
9.50am: Macquarie Pass closed due to an incident involving a bus.
9.45am: Rainfall totals are in and much of the Illawarra has been drenched by more than 150 millimetres of rain in the 24 hours to 9am in Sunday.
Add those figures to the totals recorded in the 24 hours to 9am Saturday and some centres have been soaked by up to 260mm in just a 48-hour period.
Totals – 24 hours to 9am Sunday
- Cringila – 152mm
- Balgownie – 152mm
- Figtree – 170mm
- Wongawilli – 104mm
- Wollongong (AWS) – 166mm
- Albion Park – 171mm
- Bellambi (AWS) – 164mm
- Wongawilli Reservoir – 164mm
Totals – 48 hours to 9am Sunday
- Cringila – 222mm
- Balgownie – 216mm
- Figtree – 222mm
- Wongawilli – 128mm
- Wollongong (AWS) – 222mm
- Albion Park – 228mm
- Bellambi (AWS) – 260mm
- Wongawilli Reservoir – 196mm
9.30am: While all eyes are on the sky as torrential rain falls across the Illawarra and South Coast, it’s important to remember the damaging surf and abnormally high tides associated with the East Coast Low that’s pounding the region.
Swellnet reports 15ft swell for north-east along the Wollongong coast at noon on Sunday, increasing to 15-18ft on north-east facing beaches by 6pm.
“It’s big, messy and dangerous out there today,” a post at 8.35am on Sunday said.
“There is far too much water movement and the waves are all over the place. Not a good idea to go out today.”
9.15am: A flood rescue involving a number of trapped people and horses is underway at Dapto. The SES says water levels in the area are rising.
9.10am: Large rocks are affecting traffic in both directions on Lawrence Hargrave Drive, at Railway Terrace, in Austinmer.
9.05am: Traffic alert – one of two northbound lanes of the Hume Highway closed approaching Picton Road at Wilton due to a fallen tree.
9am: More pictures of a flooded Kembla Street in Wollongong, via the NSW SES Illawarra South Coast Region team.
8.55am: PHOTO GALLERY – some amazing pictures of the #EastCoastLow hitting the Illawarra have emerged. Click on the image below to see how Mercury readers and our emergency services have captured the extreme weather.
8.45am: Reports of a tree down on a power line at Military Road, Port Kembla.
Endeavour Energy says about 1150 customers in the 2500 postcode are currently without power due to the extreme weather.
Homes in parts of Coniston, Gwynneville, Mount Saint Thomas, North Wollongong and Wollongong are listed as being affected.
8.40am: Illawarra residents are waking up to find damage caused by the continuing wild weather.
Do you have a picture to share? Share it on the Mercury’s Facebook page via a private message or in a comment on our weather post. Alternatively, email it to cos@illawarramercury.com.au
8.30am: Here’s the latest on the major roads and the rail network:
ROADS
- ALBION PARK RAIL: Illawarra Highway closed in both directions between Princes Highway and Tongarra Road
- BERRY: Flooding affecting traffic in both directions on the Princes Highway at Woodhill Mountain Road
- TULLIMBAR: Flooding affecting traffic in both directions on the Illawarra Highway at Broughton Avenue
- WOLLONGONG: Traffic lights blacked out at the intersection of Kembla and Bourke streets
- WARRAWONG: Water on the road affecting traffic in both directions on Northcliffe Drive at King Street.
- APPIN: Appin Road closed northbound at Baden Powell Drive
The NSW Transport Management Centre says due to heavy rain and high winds a large number of traffic signals are also out.
There is also various reports of debris and blocked drains which are affecting the road network.
RAIL
- WOLLONGONG – BOMADERRY: Buses replace trains in both directions due to heavy rainfall and local flooding
- WATERFALL – THIRROUL: Buses operating in both directions due to heavy rainfall and local flooding
- WOLLONGONG – PORT KEMBLA: All services suspended between Wollongong and Port Kembla in both directions due to heavy rainfall. Delay travel if possible.
8.20am: Phil Campbell from the SES said Illawarra crews have now been involved in 16 flood rescues this morning including two in the Dapto area and one in Northcliffe Drive.
8.15am: A severe weather warning for destructive winds, heavy rainfall, abnormally high tides and damaging surf remains current for the Illawarra.
The Bureau of Meteorology says an East Coast Low currently situated off the NSW north coast will deepen as it moves south.
“The position and movement of the low will determine the location of the heaviest rainfall and highest winds. The low is expected to move south of Sydney early Sunday afternoon and to the south coast late Sunday afternoon,” the bureau’s warning said.
DAMAGING WINDS from the NORTHEAST, averaging 60 to 65 km/h with peak gusts in excess of 90 km/h are being experienced along most of the coast.
LOCALLY DESTRUCTIVE WINDS with gusts up to 125 km/h are possible along central parts of the coast from late this morning and the south coast during the afternoon as the low passes close by.
The coastal fringe will be particularly under threat with this system. Winds will ease and turn northwesterly as the low passes by.
HEAVY RAIN is expected to cause flash flooding. Rainfall totals of up to 200 mm are expected south of Sydney, with 1-hourly rainfall rates of 30-70mm possible.
ABNORMALLY HIGH TIDES which may cause sea water flooding of low lying areas are likely along the entire coast. Water levels will exceed the highest tide of the year during Sunday evening.
VERY HEAVY SURF may lead to localised damage and coastal erosion. Beach conditions in these areas will be dangerous and people should stay well away from the surf and surf exposed areas.
8.10am: The severe weather is not expected to ease for a few more hours.
Weatherzone senior meteorologist Brett Dutschke warns high winds will continue throughout the day.
“We still have several more hours of intense weather to come,” he said.
“For Sydney it will be most intense this morning and then the rain looks like easing from about 9-10am. The wind is still going to be picking up from then.”
8.05am: Please heed the SES warning and stay away from floodwater.
8.03am: Yet another flood rescue, this time at Horsley:
8am: Macquarie Pass has just been closed in both directions due to a tree across the road.
Elsewhere, a number of roads are closed or affected by floodwater. See post at 7.45am and 7.30am for more. Updates will be posted as information comes to hand.
7.55am: The SES has urged people not to be on the roads if they don’t have to be.
“Conditions in the Wollongong, Illawarra and South Coast are likely to deteriorate before they improve. Limit unnecessary journeys by car,” the NSW SES Illawarra South Coast Region posted on Twitter a short time ago.
7.50am: Wollongong is under there somewhere! The latest Weatherzone radar shows plenty of rain.
7.45am: Here’s a full list of roads closures/roads affected by floodwater, as of 7.15am, in the Lake Illawarra local area command:
- UNANDERRA: Princes Highway; Five Island Road near the industrial estate; Five Island Road and Spring Hill Road at Cringila; Glastonbury Avenue.
- WARRAWONG: Northcliffe Drive between King and Griffin Street
- BERKLEY: Wilkinson Street
- KEMBLA GRANGE: Princes Highway at West Dapto Road
- DAPTO: Railway crossing at Bong Bong Road, Princes Highway near Cormack Ave, Lakelands Drive, Bong Bong Road, Station Road.
- KANAHOOKA: Edgeworth Avenue,
- ALBION PARK RAIL: Prince Highway both directions near railway station, Croome Road, Tongarra Road, Illawarra Highway between Albion Park and Tongarra Road
- ALBION PARK: Taylor Road, Tongarra Road at the Police Station, Illawarra Highway at Tullimbar,
- OAK FLATS: Lake Entrance Road and Government Road intersection closed
- WARILLA: George Street
- WINDANG: Windang Road – two lanes closed northbound near Boronia Avenue
- MINNAMURRA: Riverside Drive and Swamp Road closed
- GERRINGONG: Fern Street – a large tree is across the road
- KIAMA DOWNS: Moona Avenue and Kiarama Ave because of power lines down
7.40am: Here’s the latest update from the NSW SES Illawarra South Coast Region team.
7.37am: Reports several vehicles have been caught in floodwater at Dapto and a number of people require rescuing.
7.30am: A number of roads are affected by flooding on Sunday morning.
- ALBION PARK RAIL: Illawarra Highway closed in both directions between Princes Highway and Tongarra Road
- BERRY: Flooding affecting traffic in both directions on the Princes Highway at Woodhill Mountain Road
- TULLIMBAR: Flooding affecting traffic in both directions on the Illawarra Highway at Broughton Avenue
- WOLLONGONG: Traffic lights blacked out at the intersection of Kembla and Bourke streets
- WARRAWONG: Water on the road affecting traffic in both directions on Northcliffe Drive at King Street.
Seen any others? Please let us know: andrew.pearson@fairfaxmedia.com.au
7.25am: The SES’s busy morning continues – another flood rescue is underway at Yallah and one also in Wollongong, both with people reportedly trapped.
SUNDAY 7am: NSW SES Illawarra South Coast Region volunteers have performed at least 10 flood rescues across the Illawarra on Sunday morning, as wild weather batters the region.
Flood rescues have been undertaken at numerous locations since 3.30am including Dapto, Springhill, Wollongong, Warrawong, Berry, Albion Park Rail and two each at Albion Park and Kanahooka.
A severe weather warning for destructive winds, heavy rainfall, abnormally high tides and dangerous surf remains current for the Illawarra.
Between 9am on Saturday and 7am Sunday; 153.4mm of rain has fallen at Albion Park and 147.8mm at Bellambi Point.
6.30PM: A woman has died in a single-vehicle crash at Bulli Tops on Saturday afternoon.
Please take care on the roads; more extreme weather is forecast to hit the Illawarra on Saturday night and into Sunday.
The Illawarra Stormchasers Facebook page says another deterioration in weather is expected about midnight, with worst expected hit about sunrise on Sunday.
5.20PM: Joshua McLaren, public communications officer for the NSW SES Illawarra/South Coast region reminded the public that a severe weather warning was in place.
He said damaging winds averaging 60-65 km/h would occur throughout the region.
Also, destructive winds of 80-90 km/h, with peak gusts up to 125 km/h were expected overnight in the Illawarra/South Coast, and were expected to extend into Sunday.
As of 5pm, a total of 266 jobs had been logged in the Illawarra/South Coast so far on Saturday, with 145 still outstanding.
“This system will intensify overnight and into the early hours of tomorrow morning,” Mr McLaren said.
“We remind the public to stay vigilant.
“There will also be unusually high tides tonight, large seas as well.”
5PM:
4.30PM:
3.50PM: The Bureau of Meteorology has issued an updated severe weather warning for eastern NSW.
A low pressure trough over inland NSW will deepen and move eastwards on Saturday.
As this system moves over warmer waters off the northern NSW coast over the next couple of hours it will develop into an East Coast Low, acting NSW Regional Director Jane Golding said.
“This system is forecast to intensify tonight as it moves southwards and will continue to produce widespread heavy rain and high winds that result in riverine and flash flooding, dangerous roads, bring trees and powerlines down and may cause significant property damage,” Ms Golding said.
"This system has already produced upwards of 200mm in the far northeast of NSW, with more to come. We’ve also seen an increase in winds along the coast today, and these winds will increase further tonight as the low intensifies and tracks southwards. Locally destructive winds of around 125 km/hr are possible over areas to the south of this system.”
“We’re particularly concerned about winds and rainfall intensifying tonight and through into Sunday morning as the low continues to deepen and move southwards.
“The major population centres of Newcastle, Sydney and Wollongong will be under threat through this period, particularly along the coastal fringe. The focus will most likely shift to the southern NSW coast during Sunday.”
With a King Tide expected and huge seas creating dangerous surf conditions along the whole coast, significant coastal inundation and beach erosion is also expected.
A Flood Watch has been issued for nearly all of the river valleys along the NSW coast. Severe Weather and Flood Warnings have been issued for this event with both meteorologists and hydrologists closely monitoring the situation. Members of the public are advised to stay tuned for updates to these warnings.
The Bureau of Meteorology and the NSW State Emergency Service have been working together in preparation for the upcoming conditions.
NSW SES Acting Commissioner Greg Newton has urged the community to consider the weather conditions and avoid unnecessary travel.
"Torrential rain and damaging winds are expected in the entire coast over the next 12-24 hours. This will lead to localised flash flooding and the risk of drivers being caught in floodwater," Acting Commissioner Newton said.
"The NSW SES asks drivers to stay away from flooded areas and find an alternate, safer route. Better to arrive a little later than be caught in floodwater and risk the loss of your car, or even your life."
For further information, including the latest Flood and Weather Warnings, and rainfall and radar information, go to the Bureau's websitewww.bom.gov.au.
The Bureau is now using Twitter to disseminate significant weather information for the community. Follow us @BOM_NSW and@BOM_QLD.
The Bureau's website remains the most up-to-date and comprehensive official source of information.
1.40PM: A tree has come down at Georges Place, Wollongong. Police have reported that the SES has been called to move it, and there are no injuries or traffic delays.
1.30PM: Lake Illawarra Police are reporting that the Illawarra Highway remains closed between the Princes Highway and Tongarra Road.
1.10PM: It's not yet bucketing down but this image from the Bureau of Meteorology highlights the heavy rainfall that forecasters believe will move south.
12.30PM: NSW Department of Primary Industries advises water users to avoid murky water following rain due to possible increased risk of shark interaction, especially around river mouths.
12.15PM: Within an hour of posting its new tsunami evacuation maps, the SES had to address the hysterical reaction. Read more.
11.55AM: Wet weather has played havoc with Illawarra sporting competitions across the weekend. Here is a list of the postponements so far.
11.50AM: The following roads are affected by flooding, according to Live Traffic and Wollongong City Council:
- KEMBLA HEIGHTS: Harry Graham Drive closed.
- WINDANG: Boundary Road.
- WARRAWONG: Northcliffe Drive.
- KEMBLA GRANGE: West Dapto Road.
- OAK FLATS: Northbound lanes affected on the Princes Hwy near Colden Drive.
- ALBION PARK: Traffic is affected in all directions on the Illawarra Highway at Tongarra Road. RMS in attendance.
- CONISTON: Northbound lanes are affected on Springhill Road at Tom Thumb Road.
Motorists are advised to exercise caution.
11.50AM: Rainfall - 24hrs to 9am Saturday 4/6 (mm)
- Cringila 70
- Balgownie 64
- Figtree 52
- Wongawilli 22
- Wollongong (AWS) 56
- Albion Park 57
- Bellambi (AWS) 96
- Wongawilli Reservoir 32
- Clover Hill 6.5
- Dombarton Loop 17
- Huntley Colliery 13
- Mount Kembla 48
- North Macquarie 14
- Port Kembla 57
- Rixon Pass 52
- Upper Calderwood 18
- Warilla(Little lake) 74
- Yellow Rock Road 62
- Cleveland Road 38
11AM: The SES had received 79 callouts since 7am on Saturday, said Joshua McLaren, public communications officer at the NSW SES Illawarra/South Coast region.
As of about 11am, there were still 55 outstanding jobs.
Mr McLaren said the weather conditions will deteriorate over Saturday night and through to Sunday.
For emergency help in floods and storms call the NSW SES on 132 500. If your situation is life-threatening, call 000.
9.50AM: The South Coast train line is partially closed between Wollongong and Port Kembla in both directions due to heavy rainfall and local flooding at Port Kembla.
Buses will replace trains between these stations.
Passengers are advised to allow additional travel time, listen to station announcements and check indicator boards.
For the latest public transport information, visit www.transportnsw.info.
9.45AM: All Wollongong and Shellharbour council sportsgrounds have been closed due to the overnight deluge and forecast wet weather.
9.30AM: Bellambi Point received 96.4mm of rain in the 24 hours to 9am on Saturday –almost its entire June average of 113mm. The bulk of the rainfall, 95.6mm, fell since 10.30pm on Friday
Albion Park was soaked with 56.4mm in the 24 hours to 9am Saturday, while 66.0mm fell at Kiama and 45.2mm was tipped out of the rain gauge at Nowra.
Weekend rainfall totals of between 80 and 150 millimetres are expected as rain sets in, with isolated falls of 200 and 300 millimetres possible along the coast. Read more.
9.15AM: Wollongong City Council has sandbags available at their three works depots: Princes Hwy, Bulli, Montague Street, North Wollongong and Nolan Street, Unanderra.
These are free for residents to collect, but please take only what you need.
9AM: Two of the weekend’s biggest sporting events have been postponed due to inclement weather.
Organisers were forced to call off the Senior Country Championship Finals at Collegians Sports Centre early on Saturday morning.
“A mutual decision between the owners of the ground and the CRL has seen the games cancelled for fears for the players safety and Collegians Sports Centre surface,” a CRL NSW spokesperson said.
“A decision on the rescheduling of the games will be forthcoming.”
Elsewhere, racing officials postponed Saturday’s meeting at Kembla Grange Racecourse after more than 36mm of rain fell on the Kembla Grange track overnight, rendering the surface unfit to race.
- Douglas Park Drive is closed at Douglas Park.