Police investigating death of 45-year-old man at South Murwillumbah

APRIL 1, 8.50PM

TWEED POLICE are investigating the death of a 45-year-old man whose body was found in South Murwillumbah caravan park today.

Police said Emergency services were called to the caravan park, possibly Greenhills, on Tweed Valley Way, South Murwillumbah, just after 1.30pm today (Saturday, April 1), following reports a 45-year-old man’s body had been located.

Officers will commence inquiries into the incident and no further details were released and there was no indication as to whether the death was flood related.

A postmortem examination is expected to be conducted next week to determine the cause of death.

The death follows another two recorded lives lost, with the cause believed to be associated with flood impacts.

Tweed Police said a report will be prepared for the coroner.

Water supply restored to Greenhills and free waste disposal announced

UPDATE APRIL 1, 4PM

COUNCIL HAS advised that water supply has been restored to homes in the Greenhills area.

“Low pressure water just restored to Greenhills. Please run taps for five to ten minutes BUT STILL BOIL. This applies to Greenhills/Mistral Rd/Bakers Rd,” Council said.

“Uki boiled water alert still current.”

“Everywhere else, water is fine to drink but please minimise use if possible as the system is under pressure.”

Council has also announced they will offer free waste disposal at the Stotts Creek Resource Recovery Centre for flood-damaged material.

APRIL 1, 10.30AM

CORRECTION: Tumbulgum residents are reporting there is 50-75cm of water over Tweed Valley Way at Tumbulgum.

UPDATE: The Weekly has just spoken to Council regarding Tweed Valley Way and they are correcting their social media feed – there is no access through Tweed Valley Way. Please see below for council’s statement:

“There is no access north from Murwillumbah as previously advised. We are relying on information from crews on the ground and unfortunately, there was a miscommunication.

“Council apologies for the error and any inconvenience caused. There is no way we want people to drive through floodwaters. Many thanks to the people on the ground who let us know.”

According to Council’s facebook page had said “It is possible to travel north from Murwillumbah now, however you won’t be able to get back at this stage.” – this information was incorrect.

Current road closures as per My Road Info

• Bilambil Road
• Byrill Creek Road
• Chinderah Bay Drive
• Clothiers Creek Road
• Cobaki Road
• Crabbes Creek Road
• Kyogle Road, Byangum Bridge.
• Kyogle Road, Sharps Road
• Kyogle Road/Smiths Creek Road
• Kyogle Road Bray Park
• Limpinwood Road
• Mooball-Pottsville Road
• North Arm Road
• Numinbah Road at Nobbys Creek
• Palmvale Road
• One lane of the Pacific Motorway from Chinderah to Clothiers Creek northbound, Tweed River to Clothiers Creek southbound
• Piggabeen Road
• River Street Chinderah
• Riverside Drive Tumbulgum
• Stokers Road, north of school
• Terranora Road, North Tumbulgum
• Tumbulgum Road Murwillumbah
• Tweed Valley Way from Condong to Pacific Highway
• Tweed Valley Way/Clothiers Creek intersection
• Tweed Valley Way Mooball
• Tweed Valley Way South Murwillumbah
• Tyalgum Road, Rocky Cutting
• Tyalgum Road/Kyogle Road intersection
• Urliup Road
• Wommin Bay Road
• Wooyung Road

Drivers are urged to take caution

• Alma St with caution advised
• Kennedy Dr from Ducat to Gray St due to flooding
• Kyogle Rd near Shire boundary following a landslip and fallen tree. One lane is open, proceed with caution
• Spring Valley Rd culvert has collapsed near the end of the road. A temporary bypass bridge is in place with a 5 tonne weight limit

“We need your help” clean up appeal for Murwillumbah as floods recede

APRIL 1, 10AM

MURWILLUMBAH RESIDENTS, especially those in South Murwillumbah, are appealing for help from fellow residents to assist with a massive clean up effort today (Saturday, April 1) following one of the worst Tweed floods in recorded history.

Several properties and businesses throughout Murwillumbah have suffered a devastating blow, with some properties almost completely destroyed by the torrential floodwater. These include both residential and commercial properties which have undergone damages beyond imagination. For instance, many office buildings have been wrecked by rain and floods–the roofs have been damaged by rain (and would most likely need the help of professionals at Commercial Roofing, Inc.), the exterior walls are stained from too much exposure to the water, and the indoor areas are filled with dirt from the floods. The same is true for residential properties. Hence, external help would be required to fix all these.

Several families reportedly spent the night in the rafters of their roofs, while others left their homes late into the night using kayaks and boats.

Residents are also being asked to donate whatever funds and household items to give those residents a boost as they face the prospect of losing everything.

Many families have reportedly lost family-photo albums and family heirlooms.

Helpers are encouraged to bring shovels, hoses, brooms and other cleaning gear to assist with cleaning away excessive amounts of mud and debris.

A social media page known as Murwillumbah Flood Donations has been setup with offers of free furniture and other items including assistance.

The site has attracted 500 likes via Facebook with offers such as free clothing, school uniforms, water & food, furniture, free storage courtesy of Storage King and plenty more.

Murwillumbah District Business Chamber acting President Ilze Jaunberzins has been walking the town, taking photos and assessing the damage, while offering help and advice to those that need it.

Mayor of Tweed, Councillor Katie Milne, said Council is committed to providing a kerbside collection of damaged goods and debris from properties heavily affectedby the deluge.

“A number of residents have suffered heavy financial and property losses and will naturally be emotionally impacted as well, so we want to help,” Councillor Milne said.

“Affected residents will be advised of details of the clean up in the coming days, as the waters subside. We won’t be collecting shirewide but certainly affected areas such as South Murwillumbah/Condong, Chinderah, Tumbulgum, Fingal Head and Uki will be included.

“We ask that residents obey all road signage and not drive through flood waters. Our crews haven’t been able to reach all areas, so some roads may be flooded without road closure signs, so be cautious and stay off the roads if you can.”

Council’s water and wastewater infrastructure did not fare so well, with loss of power and communications to the Shire’s major water pump station and similar problems at Uki and Tyalgum. A number of sewage pump stations are out of operation and work is underway to restore them.

“Thankfully, our reservoirs have good supplies so we’ll have sufficient water for at least the next few days, however we ask the community to minimise water usage where possible. There is no need to boil water,” Cr Milne said.

Council offices and phone lines at Murwillumbah and Tweed Heads remain open, however customers with non-urgent issues are requested to hold off until next week with their enquiries if possible, to allow staff to deal with flood-related matters.

For flood emergencies or information, call the SES on 132 500 or visit www.ses.nsw.gov.au For current road conditionsgo to www.myroadinfo.com.au or livetraffic.rta.nsw.gov.au

Another tragic death confirmed of Murwillumbah 46-year-old man

MARCH, 31 9.30PM

TWEED POLICE are investigating the death of a 46-year-old man in a home in Murwillumbah this morning, Friday, March 31.

Police from Tweed/Byron Local Area Command believe the man was with his partner and adult children when he collapsed at his home about 2am, Friday, March 31.

Attempts to revive the man were unsuccessful and he died at the scene.

A post mortem examination is expected to be conducted next week to determine the cause of death.

While the man’s home was in a flood-prone area, it’s not believed he had physically entered the floodwaters.

A report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner.

Police are urging anyone with information in relation to this incident to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or use the Crime Stoppers online reporting page: https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au/

Woman’s body found at flooded property in Upper Burringbar

MARCH, 31 6.10PM

TWEED POLICE said a woman’s body has been found on a flooded property in Upper Burringbar this afternoon.

Police from Tweed/Byron Local Area Command have been told the woman disappeared in floodwaters overnight from a rural property on Upper Burringbar Road, at Upper Burringbar.

Her body was found by a family member about 8am on Friday, March 31.

Inquiries are underway and a postmortem is expected to be conducted next week.

Police did not release the woman’s age nor how she passed away, as investigations continue.

Police are urging anyone with information in relation to this incident to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or use the Crime Stoppers online reporting page: https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au/

Parts of Tweed Valley Way washed away and drinking water advice for Uki & South Murwillumbah

MARCH 31, 5PM

TWEED SHIRE Council is reporting parts of Tweed Valley Way have sustained extensive damage especially at Greenhills at Murwillumbah South, in the vicinity of Blacks Drain.

“Homes and businesses in the area are without water and a number of properties have been inundated,” Council said in a media statement this afternoon.

“Council staff are working to restore water to the Greenhills Lodge aged care facility, however properties and businesses south of there will be without water until the water recedes and repairs are made to infrastructure.

“Council advises that any water collected more than 24 hours ago in the Greenhills area needs to be boiled before use, as a precaution against any possible contamination.

“The water main and rising sewer main were both washed out during the heavy rain and the road, a bridge, culvert and footpath sustained major damage.

“Council will work with the SES to attempt to get bottled water supplies to isolated residents.”

Council said it may be some time before the water recedes enough for an assessment to be carried out and repairs made.

“The situation is made more difficult as Council plant and equipment is isolated in other locations and it will take time to be able to access the site,” the media statement said.

Council’s General Manager, Troy Green, said Council would be working throughout the weekend to restore services to these residents as quickly as possible.

Mr Green is also urging residents to reduce their water consumption over the coming days.

“Please reduce water consumption in the Tweed as there are issues with some water pump stations,” Council social media page said.

“Council crews are working to repair affected water and sewage infrastructure.”

Uki residents are advised to boil their water (see below) all other Tweed residents do not need to boil water at this stage, according to Council.

UKI WATER SUPPLY

TWEED SHIRE Council said recent heavy rain has made the Uki drinking water supply “untreatable”, in a media statement and that Uki has its own water treatment plant and this water may have become contaminated.

Residents are advised that water used for drinking or food preparation should be brought to a rolling boil.

“Water should then be allowed to cool and stored in a clean container with a lid and refrigerated,” the statement reads.

“If you are unable to boil the water, household bleach can be used to kill disease causing organisms in the water. Add 10 drops of 1 per cent chlorine bleach per litre of water and let it stand for 30 minutes. If you cannot smell chlorine after that time, add another 10 drops.

“Bottled or cool boiled water or bleached water should be used for drinking, preparing food, making ice, pet’s drinking water, cleaning teeth and gargling.

“Dishes should be washed in hot soapy water or in a dishwasher. Children should take bottled or cool boiled water or bleached water to school.”

Tweed Shire Council said it is working to fix the problem and bring in alternative water via a tanker or bottled water.

This advice should be followed until further notice.

Banora Point and Seagulls estate residents urged to seek higher ground

MARCH, 31 3.30PM

RESIDENTS IN low-lying areas of Banora Point and the Seagulls Estate are being urged by the SES to move to higher ground as it is now too late to evacuate.

The SES said the area is currently isolated and it is too late to evacuate.

Parts of Banora Point along with the Seagulls estate will become inundated with floodwater later this afternoon and the area is currently isolated.

“Remaining in flooded areas is dangerous and may place your life at risk,” said Anthony Day, Deputy Incident Controller.

The Weekly is currently awaiting advice from the SES in relation to specific streets.

The SES is currently directing residents in low lying areas of Banora Point and the Seagulls estate to;

• Seek refuge on higher ground or in the highest part of a sturdy building
• Where possible, check on elderly and less mobile neighbours
• Consider your own safety when deciding to assist others
• It may be difficult for emergency services to access this area, however assistance will be provided where possible.

• Take your spare clothing, medicines and personal hygiene supplies.
• If possible, check to see if your neighbours need help.
• Turn off the electricity and gas.
• Never drive ride or walk through floodwater.
• Continue to listen to a local radio station for updates.

For emergency help in floods and storms, call the NSW SES on 132 500.

In life threatening emergencies call 000.

NSW SES website: http://www.ses.nsw.gov.au

Police appeal for residents to avoid travel

MARCH, 31 2PM

TWEED POLICE are appealing to community members to avoid unnecessary travel on local roads as flood waters threaten to trap sightseers and those attempting to escape low lying areas.

Police said a number of roads in the Kingscliff, Chinderah, Tweed South and Tweed Heads areas have become congested with vehicles and there are concerns motorists attempting to flee may become trapped in rising flood waters.

The Pacific Motorway M1 is closed in both directions between the Tweed Heads exit and Tweed Valley Way at Chinderah.

Residents in high level areas are asked to remain in their home and avoid travel on the road where possible. Residents in low-lying areas are urged to move to higher ground and seek shelter.

Community members are being advised to listen for evacuation notices and advice.

For the latest on road closures members of the community can visit the website www.livetraffic.com or contact their local councils.

Members of the public in flood affected areas should continue to listen to local radio stations, or check the websites listed below.

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 all other emergencies, the public are advised to contact Triple Zero.

Unconfirmed reports of death in South Murwillumbah

MARCH, 31 2PM

THERE ARE unconfirmed reports of a person found deceased in South Murwillumbah today, March 31, as floodwater continues to recede in the Tweed Valley but is still inundating the Tweed Coast.

It should be noted that Tweed Police are yet to confirm specifics around the death as limited access to regions and rescue operations are leading to a lack of resourcing.

A media briefing is expected to take place this afternoon and once more information is known about the deceased, including whether the person died as a result of the floods or in fact died from another cause, will be revealed.

The death follows widespread destruction of South Murwillumbah with many homes flooded and families taking refuge at Sacred Heart Church in the Murwillumbah CBD or evacuating to the nearby railway station.

Meanwhile, clean-up operations are taking place across the Tweed Valley as areas including Banora Point and Chinderah continue to experience rising waters.

Murwillumbah levee wall holds by centimetres as Tweed River begins to fall

MARCH, 31 6AM

THE MURWILLUMBAH levee wall has held back a ferocious Tweed River at a peak of 6.2 metres at 4.30 am this morning with the river now beginning to fall.

Earlier predictions had the Tweed River peaking at 6.4 metres this morning, which would have breached the levee wall (6.3 metres) while residents of Murwillumbah CBD were instructed to evacuate by the SES.

The flood level broke the previous record of 6.07 metres set during the 1954 floods and if it wasn’t for the levee wall Murwillumbah CBD and surrounds would have seen much more extensive flooding.

The CBD was inundated with flash flooding affecting businesses on Wharf Street.

South Murwillumbah has experienced extensive flooding along with several other low lying areas north of the river including around Knox Park, Riverview Street, William Street and the Murwillumbah Leagues Club.

Residents are reporting that flood waters are beginning to recede and it was a long and nervous night for many business and home owners who watched the waters continue to rise.

Rain has eased and the forecast is for no further significant rainfall today and a strong wind warning in place.

The Tweed River at Chinderah (Barneys Point) (AHD) is expected to peak near 4.30 metres with major flooding early Friday afternoon, when the arrival of the upstream flood peak will coincide with the high tide.

Latest river levels;

Tweed River at Uki	10.30m	Falling	05:28 AM
Oxley River at Eungella	5.85m	Falling	05:27 AM
Rous River at Chillingham	6.43m	Rising	11:34 PM
Rous River at Boat Harbour	12.80m	Falling	04:45 AM
Tweed River at Tumbulgum (AHD)	3.56m	Rising	05:27 AM
Tweed River at Chinderah (Barneys Point) (AHD)	1.64m	Steady	05:21 AM

Tweed River heights

MARCH, 31 2.30AM

THE TWEED River has exceeded the 1954 flood level and is expected to reach around 6.4 metres in Murwillumbah early Friday morning due to faster than expected river rises with major flooding and an evacuation of the CBD currently underway whilst Chinderah is expected to see a major flood level this afternoon.

The level of the 1954 floods was 6.07 metres in Murwillumbah and 12.26 metres in Uki.

At 1.30am the river was recorded at 6.23 metres and rising in Murwillumbah and 12.82 metres and rising in Uki.

The CBD floods when the river reaches 6.3m and the SES is advising the Murwillumbah CBD and East Murwillumbah levee may flow over in some sections at this height and have issued an evacuation order.

According to the Bureau of Meterology between 500mm and 712 mm of rain has been recorded in the 24 hours to 12.30 pm in the middle and upper reaches of the Tweed River valley.

In the three hours to 12.30 pm rainfall intensity increased, particularly over the middle parts of the catchment, which recorded between 120 and 210 mm during that period. Faster than expected river rises have continued at Murwillumbah with the river.

Minor flooding is occurring along the Tweed River at Chinderah (Barney’s Point), the river was recorded at 1.69 metres and rising at 1.30am.

The Tweed River at Chinderah may reach around 1.80 metres early Friday morning with moderate flooding.

The river level is expected to reach the major flood level (2.00 m) early Friday afternoon with major flooding, with further rises possible.

FloodSafe advice is available at www.ses.nsw.gov.au

For emergency assistance call the SES on telephone number 132 500.

For life threatening emergencies, call 000 immediately.

Latest River Heights:

Location	Height of River	Tendency	Date/Time of Observation
Tweed River at Uki	12.82m	Rising	01:22 AM
Oxley River at Eungella	9.77m	Rising	01:27 AM
Tweed River at Murwillumbah (AHD)	6.23m	Rising	01:26 AM
Rous River at Chillingham	6.43m	Rising	11:34 PM
Tweed River at Tumbulgum (AHD)	3.14m	Rising	01:28 AM
Tweed River at Chinderah (Barneys Point) (AHD)	1.69m	Rising	01:27 AM

Evacuation order Murwillumbah CBD

MARCH, 31 1AM

THE SES has issued an evacuation order for residents in the Murwillumbah in the Murwillumbah CBD as there is now a chance the Tweed River could break parts of the levee wall.

Residents in the area bounded by Church Street, Riverview Street, and the bend on Commercial Road, including all residences on Commercial Road, York Street, Tumbulgum Road and George Street are all ordered to evacuate.

Businesses in the CBD have been sandbagging through the night and water is entering businesses along Wharf Street.

The Bureau of Meteorology has revised the prediction for the Tweed River to reach 6.2m at Murwillumbah early this morning with between 500mm to 712 mm of rain recorded in the 24 hours to 12.30 pm.

The Murwillumbah CBD floods when the river reaches 6.3m and the SES is advising the Murwillumbah CBD and East Murwillumbah levee may overtop some sections at this height.

The NSW State Emergency Service is directing residents within the Murwillumbah CBD and East Murwillumbah to evacuate immediately to higher ground within Murwillumbah.

Do not delay your evacuation. You could become trapped and need rescue. Remaining in flooded areas is dangerous and may place your life at risk.

Wherever possible, people should go and stay with family or friends, or make other accommodation arrangements.

For people who need assistance an evacuation centre has been set up by Family and Community Services at Kings Sacred Heart (Catholic Hall) Murwillumbah Street, Murwillumbah.

As you evacuate you should; 

• Take your important documents, mementos and photos. 
• Take your spare clothing, medicines and personal hygiene supplies. 
• If going to the evacuation centre take blankets/sleeping bags, pillows and sleeping mats.
• If possible, check to see if your neighbours need help. 
• Turn off the electricity and gas. 
• Never drive ride or walk through floodwater. 
• Continue to listen to a local radio station for updates.

For emergency help in floods and storms, call the NSW SES on 132 500 NSW SES website: http://www.ses.nsw.gov.au

Latest river heights

MARCH, 31 6PM

The TWEED River in Murwillumbah is continuing to rise, exceeding earlier predictions with the Tweed Valley receiving a whopping 417mm in 24 hours.

The South Murwillumbah levee has been broken and residents are being evacuated from their homes. The bridge is closed and all roads out of town are flooded.

The Rous River at Chillingham continues to rise whilst all other rivers are either falling or steady.

The current prediction is for the Tweed River at Murwillumbah to reach a peak of 5.6 metres and could affect around 176 homes.

Further heavy rainfall is predicted over the next 24 hours and the SES and BOM will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates on river heights and predictions.

Tweed River at Uki	12m	Falling	5PM
Oxley River at Eungella	7.82m	Falling	5PM
Tweed River at Murwillumbah (AHD)	5.18m	Rising	5PM
Rous River at Chillingham	4.16m	Rising	5PM
Rous River at Boat Harbour	6.27m	Steady	5PM
Tweed River at Tumbulgum (AHD)	2.58m	Steady	5PM
Tweed River at Chinderah (Barneys Point) (AHD)	1.19m	Steady	5PM

Flood Evacuation Order for Tweed Heads South and Tweed Heads West

MARCH, 31 5.30PM

TWEED HEADS South and Tweed Heads West residents are being ordered by the SES to evacuate their homes due to continued and further predicted heavy rain and resultant flash flooding.

This follows an evacuation order released earlier this afternoon for South Murwillumbah, Condong and Tumbulgum and a flood evacuation warning for low lying areas of Chinderah, Tweed Heads, Tweed Heads South, Kingscliff and Fingal Head.

The NSW State Emergency Service (SES) is directing residents within the nominated areas to evacuate immediately where safe transit exists and it they are able to do so.

An evacuation centre has been set up at Kingscliff TAFE, Cudgen Road Kingscliff and Banora Point High School.

They are advising those that are unable to do so, seek refuge in a safe and high place.

The SES is urging residents not to delay their evacuation. Conditions can change quickly and roads will be congested or closed. Remaining in flooded areas is dangerous and may place your life at risk.

Wherever possible, people should go and stay with family or friends, or make other accommodation arrangements.

As you evacuate you should;

• Take your important documents, mementos and photos.
• Take your spare clothing, medicines and personal hygiene supplies.
• If going to the evacuation centre take blankets/sleeping bags, pillows and sleeping mats.
• If possible, check to see if your neighbours need help.
• Turn off the electricity and gas.
• Never drive ride or walk through floodwater.
• Continue to listen to a local radio station for updates.

For emergency help in floods and storms, call the NSW SES on 132 500 NSW SES website: http://www.ses.nsw.gov.au

Moderate to Major Flood Warning issued for Tweed River

MARCH, 31 5pm

THE FLOOD level of the Tweed River at Murwillumbah is now expected to exceed the 2001 and 2008 flood levels with almost 400mm of rain falling over the past 24 hours.

According to the SES major flooding of the Tweed River in Murwillumbah is forecast to reach up to 5.3 metres late this evening with more rainfall expected overnight.

The South Murwillumbah levee is likely to break with current levels in Murwillumbah 4.7 metres and rising, with the levee standing at the 4.85 metre mark. This may affect up to 176 homes in South Murwillumbah and Bray Park, causing flooding of the lower levels.

Up to 398 millimetres of rain has been observed during the past 24 hours to 3pm in the Tweed River valley, with significant river level rises in the valley.

Major flooding is forecast along the Tweed River at Murwillumbah late Thursday afternoon, with river levels predicted to be slightly higher than the 2001 and 2008 floods.

The Bureau of Meteorology has predicted that the Tweed River will:

• Exceed 4.80 metres at the Murwillumbah gauge late Thursday afternoon, and may reach 5.30 metres late Thursday evening.
• Exceed 1.30 metres at the Chinderah (Barneys Point) gauge at around 7pm Thursday evening, with the potential to reach around 1.90 metres late Thursday evening with the high tide.
• This will cause major flooding on the Tweed River at Murwillumbah.

The current river heights are:

• Murwillumbah gauge is 4.80 metres and rising.
• Chinderah (Barneys Point) gauge is 1.17 metres and steady.

At this predicted height there is a high probability that flood water will enter the lower levels of about 176 houses (most are elevated), the railway station (disused) is cut off from town, and water enters the lower levels of elevated houses in Bray Park.

At two metres most of Chinderah is inundated and water starts to enter the lowlying areas of Kingscliff. Some houses in Chinderah will have water over their floors and access to many areas only possible by boat.

Latest river heights

Tweed River at Uki	11.8m	Rising	3PM
Oxley River at Eungella	8.10m	Rising	3PM
Tweed River at Murwillumbah (AHD)	4.7m	Rising	3PM
Rous River at Chillingham	5.14m	Steady	3PM
Rous River at Boat Harbour	6.33m	Rising	3PM
Tweed River at Tumbulgum (AHD)	2.38m	Steady	3PM
Tweed River at Chinderah (Barneys Point) (AHD)	1.17m	Steady	3PM

The NSW SES recommends the following actions:

• If river levels continue to rise residents in low lying areas that may become isolated, need to consider the impact of potential flood isolation on their work, family & educational commitments.
• Keep in contact with your neighbours.
• Farmers on low lying land close to rivers and creeks are urged to monitor livestock, pumps and other equipment.
• If your property is at risk of inundation, please raise moveable items, such as furniture, as high as possible onto benches or tables, placing electrical items on top.
• If you are advised by an emergency services officer to evacuate, please do so.
• Secure outside belongings and before leaving; turn off the power, water and take essential medicines and clothes with you.

Never drive ride or walk through floodwater.

For emergency help in floods and storms, call the NSW SES on 132 500
NSW SES website: http://www.ses.nsw.gov.au

FloodSafe website: http://www.floodsafe.com.au

The SES is monitoring the situation and will continue to provide updates.

Flood Evacuation Warning for Chinderah, Tweed Heads South, Kingscliff, Fingal Head and Bilambil

RESIDENTS IN low lying areas of Chinderah, Tweed Heads, Tweed Heads South, Kingscliff and Fingal Head are being asked by the SES to prepare to evacuate prior to 7pm today.

Areas that will be affected by rising river levels and the king tide include low lying caravan parks in Chinderah, Tweed Heads South and Kingscliff and low lying properties in Fingal Head and Bilambil.

Residents should monitor the situation and be prepared to evacuate when instructed to do so.

A Flood Evacuation Order will be issued by the NSW SES if evacuation is required.

Wherever possible, people should go and stay with family or friends, or make other accommodation arrangements.

For people who need assistance an evacuation centre has been established at Kingscliff TAFE, Cudgen Road Kingscliff and Banora Point High School.

As you prepare for evacuation you should:

• Raise belongings by placing them on tables, beds and benches.
• Put electrical items on top. You may be able to place light weight items in the roof space.
• Collect together medicines, personal and financial documents, mementos and photos
• If possible, check to see if your neighbours need help.
• Make arrangements for care of pets or other animals, or take your pets with you when you evacuate.
• Take three days’ supply of clothing, medicines and personal hygiene products.
• If you are planning to go to the evacuation centre, take blankets/sleeping bags, pillows and sleeping mats.
• Find out where to turn off the electricity and gas.
• Continue to listen to a local radio station for updates.

Never drive ride or walk through floodwater.

For emergency assistance telephone the NSW SES on 132 500.

Web site: http://www.ses.nsw.gov.au

MARCH, 31 3.45PM

SOUTH MURWILLUMBAH, Condong and Tumbulgum residents are being directed by the SES to evacuate their properties immediately as the Tweed River continues to rise and an increasing number of roads are flooding.

South Murwillumbah streets are beginning to flood with water over the road on Alma Street near Budd Park.

The SES is advising residents to not delay their evacuation.

“Roads will be congested or closed,” said the SES.

“You could become trapped and need rescue. Remaining in flooded areas is dangerous and may place your life at risk.

“Wherever possible, people should go and stay with family or friends, or make other accommodation arrangements.”

There is an evacuation centre set up at Kings Sacred Heart (Catholic Hall) Murwillumbah Street, Murwillumbah.

As you evacuate you should;

• Take your important documents, mementos and photos.
• Take your spare clothing, medicines and personal hygiene supplies.
• If going to the evacuation centre take blankets/sleeping bags, pillows and sleeping mats.
• If possible, check to see if your neighbours need help.
• Turn off the electricity and gas.
• Never drive ride or walk through floodwater.
• Continue to listen to a local radio station for updates.

For emergency help in floods and storms, call the NSW SES on 132 500 NSW SES website: http://www.ses.nsw.gov.au

Major flooding expected to reach levels of 2001 and 2008 floods

MARCH, 31 1.45PM

THE FLOOD warning for the Tweed Valley has been upgraded to a major flood warning expected to reach levels similar to the 2001 and 2008 floods, and South Murwillumbah, Condong and Tumbulgum residents are being advised by the SES to prepare to evacuate their homes within the next three hours.

The river has broke its banks with Budd Park in South Murwillumbah and nearby properties at risk of inundation.

Some Murwillumbah residents are already beginning to evacuate their homes with Taylors Corner and areas around the showgrounds and Mt St Patrick College beginning to evacuate.

Several roads remain closed across the shire with Tweed Valley Way now also closed (see below for further road closures).

The current river heights are 3.46 metres and steady in Murwillumbah and 1.08 metres and steady at Barneys Point gauge (Chinderah).

The SES is advising residents to monitor the situation and be prepared to evacuate when instructed to do so. A Flood Evacuation Order will be issued by the SES if evacuation is required.

For those requiring assistance, an evacuation centre has been established and activated at the Murwillumbah Sacred Heart Church Hall, Murwillumbah and the Kingscliff TAFE situated at Cudgen road Kingscliff.

The Murwillumbah SES has already had 45 requests for assistance today including more than five flood rescues.

The SES has said that at this predicted height there is a high probability that water will top the 4.85 metre South Murwillumbah levee height and enter the lower levels of around 176 homes, with most homes being highset.

It is also predicted the railway station will be cut off from town and water will enter the lower levels of elevated houses in Bray Park.

Tumbulgum access roads will be inundated in approximately three to four hours after reaching 3.4m height in Murwillumbah and approximately two metres on the Tumbulgum gauge.

At two metres, most of Chinderah is inundated and water starts to enter the low-lying areas of Kingscliff. Some houses in Chinderah will have water over their floors and access to many areas only possible by boat.

Up to 270 millimetres of rain has been observed during the past 12 hours to 11.45 am over the Tweed River valley, and there has been significant river level rises at Murwillumbah and upstream.

Further rainfall is forecast over the next 24 to 48 hours which could produce further river level rises. The situation is being closely monitored and revised predictions will be issued if necessary.

NSW SES Richmond Tweed Region Controller, Mr Andrew McPhee says, “People in the Northern Rivers need to be aware of the imminent weather and the potential flooding effects that it may cause throughout the week”.

This Flood Watch means that people living or working along rivers and streams must monitor the latest weather forecasts and warnings and be ready to move to higher ground should flooding develop. In order to do that, they can get a portable weather station (click here to know more) for their home that can help them know about the rain forecast beforehand.

Evacuation advice

As you prepare for evacuation you should:

• Raise belongings by placing them on tables, beds and benches. Put electrical items on top. You may be able to place light weight items in the roof space.
• Collect together medicines, personal and financial documents, mementos and photos.
• If possible, check to see if your neighbours need help.
• Make arrangements for care of pets, or take your pets with you when you evacuate.
• Take three days’ supply of clothing, medicines and personal hygiene products.
• If you are planning to go to the evacuation centre, take blankets/sleeping bags, pillows and sleeping mats.
• Find out where to turn off the electricity and gas.
• Continue to listen to a local radio station for updates.

Road closures

• Bilambil Road
• Cobaki Road
• Crabbes Creek Road
• Kyogle Road, Byangum Bridge.
• Kyogle Road, Sharps Road
• Limpinwood Road
• Mooball-Pottsville Road
• North Arm Road
• Numinbah Road at Nobbys Creek
• Palmvale Road
• Stokers Road, north of school
• Terranora Road, North Tumbulgum
• Tweed Valley Way from Condong to Pacific Highway
• Tweed Valley Way/Clothiers Creek intersection
• Tyalgum Road, Rocky Cutting
• Tyalgum Road/Kyogle Road intersection

Tweed River

Minor flooding is current at Murwillumbah. Major flooding is predicted at Murwillumbah this afternoon. Minor flooding is predicted at Chinderah with the high tide.

The Tweed River at Murwillumbah is expected to exceed 4.20 metres around 1pm Thursday with moderate flooding. The river level may reach near the major flood level (4.8 metres) Thursday afternoon. Further rises are possible.

The Tweed River at Chinderah (Barneys Point) may reach the minor flood level (1.30 metres) around 1pm Thursday. The river level may reach around 1.60 metres late Thursday evening with minor flooding on the high tide.

Latest River Heights:

Location	Height of River (m)	Tendency	Date/Time of Observation
Tweed River at Uki	10.48	Rising	11:38 AM THU 30/03/17
Oxley River at Eungella	6.07	Rising	11:33 AM THU 30/03/17
Tweed River at Murwillumbah (AHD)	3.46	Steady	11:39 AM THU 30/03/17
Rous River at Chillingham	4.32	Rising	11:36 AM THU 30/03/17
Rous River at Boat Harbour	6.02	Falling	11:39 AM THU 30/03/17
Tweed River at Tumbulgum (AHD)	1.82	Rising	11:31 AM THU 30/03/17
Tweed River at Chinderah (Barneys Point) (AHD)	1.08	Steady	11:39 AM THU 30/03/17

The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has also predicted that the Northern Rivers area will receive destructive winds, heavy rainfall and abnormally high tides and damaging surf from this afternoon.

Damaging winds averaging 65km/h with gusts in excess of 125km/h are possible along the coastal fringe north of about Sydney from Thursday afternoon, extending northwards during Thursday night and Friday

Flood Safety Advice:

FloodSafe advice is available at www.ses.nsw.gov.au

For emergency assistance call the SES on telephone number 132 500.

For life threatening emergencies, call 000 immediately.

Tweed Valley receives 220m deluge overnight

MARCH, 31 10AM

An initial minor to moderate flood warning has been issued for the Tweed River
at Murwillumbah and Chinderah as the Tweed Valley recorded 130mm rainfall overnight.

According to the Bureau of Meteorology up to 132 millimetres of rain was observed in the Tweed Valley during 6 hours to 6am and there has been significant river level rises upstream. Over the past 12 hours to 9.30am 220 millimetres of rain was recorded.

Several local roads are flooded and many residents can’t leave their properities. All local schools are closed for today and tomorrow with parents encouraged to pick up their children from school. Year 12 exams have been postponed until further notice.

Further rainfall is forecast over the next 24 to 48 hours which could produce further river level rises. The situation is being closely monitored and revised predictions will be issued if necessary.

With the forecast rainfall, moderate flooding may develop along the Tweed River at Murwillumbah. Minor flooding is predicted at Chinderah with tonight’s high tide.

The Tweed River at Murwillumbah may reach the minor flood level of 3 metres this afternoon. The river level may reach the moderate flood level of 4 metres early Friday morning with further rises possible.

The Tweed River at Chinderah at Barneys Point is likely to reach the minor flood level of 1.30 metres.

Road closures

Bilambil Road

Cobaki Road

Crabbes Creek Road

Kyogle Road, Byangum Bridge.

Kyogle Road, Sharps Road

Limpinwood Road

Mooball-Pottsville Road

North Arm Road

Numinbah Road at Nobbys Creek

Palmvale Road

Stokers Road, north of school

Terranora Road, North Tumbulgum

Tyalgum Road, Rocky Cutting

Tyalgum Road/Kyogle Road intersection

Latest river heights

Tweed River at Uki	8.85m	Rising	09:24AM
Oxley River at Eungella	6.86m	Rising	09:29AM
Tweed River at Murwillumbah (AHD)	2.25m	Rising	09:29AM
Rous River at Chillingham	6.22m	Rising	09:23AM
Rous River at Boat Harbour	5.30m	Rising	09:29AM
Tweed River at Tumbulgum (AHD)	1.02m	Rising	08:52AM
Tweed River at Chinderah (Barneys Point) (AHD)	0.73m	Steady	09:25 AM

The NSW SES recommends the following actions:

• If river levels continue to rise residents in low lying areas that may become isolated, need to consider the impact of potential flood isolation on their work, family and educational commitments.
• Keep in contact with your neighbours.
• Farmers on low lying land close to rivers and creeks are urged to monitor livestock, pumps and other equipment.
• If your property is at risk of inundation, please raise moveable items, such as furniture, as high as possible onto benches or tables, placing electrical items on top.
• If you are advised by an emergency services officer to evacuate, please do so.
• Secure outside belongings and before leaving; turn off the power, water and take essential medicines and clothes with you.

Never drive ride or walk through floodwater.

For emergency help in floods and storms, call the NSW SES on 132 500

NSW SES website: http://www.ses.nsw.gov.au

FloodSafe website: http://www.floodsafe.com.au

Bureau of Meteorology weather forecasts and flood predictions including river height information are available at http://www.bom.gov.au

Road information, for local roads log onto http://myroadinfo.com.au

Warning, rainfall and river information are available at http://www.bom.gov.au/nsw/flood.