NSW Braces for Continued Flooding Amid Unstable Weather

4

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Clear

QBE Highlights the Importance of Adequate Landlord Insurance 15 Jul 2025: Paige Estritori Landlords in Australia have been advised by QBE Insurance Group to reassess their insurance coverage, following survey findings that indicate many could encounter financial hardships if their rental operations are interrupted. According to QBE's data, 38% of landlords might face financial challenges should their properties become uninhabitable or rental payments cease for a duration of two to six weeks. - read more

Court Denies E-Scooter Negligence Allegation Against City Council 14 Jul 2025: Paige Estritori An Australian court recently ruled in favour of the City of Joondalup, rejecting a negligence claim lodged by an injured e-scooter rider. The Western Australia District Court found the city not liable for an accident involving insurance broker Kirstin Leibbrandt, who collided with a fence post while riding an e-scooter in the Perth suburb of Hillarys. - read more

Mental Health Surpasses Other Causes in TPD Claims, Doubling Payouts Over Five Years 14 Jul 2025: Paige Estritori Recent findings from the Council of Australian Life Insurers (CALI) reveal that mental health issues have become the primary cause of Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) claims. Insurers disbursed nearly twice the amount for such claims in 2024 compared to five years prior. This data originates from the CALI and KPMG's Cause of Claims Results Report, highlighting a significant shift in the nature of insurance claims. - read more

Impact of Trump Tariffs on Global Insurance Industry 11 Jul 2025: Paige Estritori According to Swiss Re’s latest Sigma report, the growth of property and casualty premiums is moderating in both Australia and globally. This moderation is primarily driven by a slowdown in rate hikes. Additionally, the Trump administration's America First trade policy is putting further pressure on the insurance sector. - read more

Navigating Changes in Australia's Life Insurance Advice Landscape 10 Jul 2025: Paige Estritori The conversation on the shifting dynamics in Australia's life insurance advice sector featured Zurich Australia's head of adviser channel, Kieran Forde, and Hayes & Co director, Katherine Hayes. They engaged with editor Chris Dastoor to spotlight the current market conditions and future prospects for financial advisers in this domain. - read more