Wet weather affecting roads and causing flooding in Byron Shire

Wet weather affecting roads and causing flooding in Byron Shire

Published on 07 February 2020

Parts of the Byron Shire have received more than 280mm rain in the 24 hours to 9am this morning and this is having an impact on some roads, particularly in the Byron Bay area.

The heavy rain, in conjunction with a large high tide, has caused flooding in some areas.

Byron Shire Council’s crews are continuing to clear drains and manage the various roads issues, with staff also working through the night responding to emergencies. 

Earlier this week (Monday 3 February) Council scraped the entrance to Belongil Creek in anticipation of heavy rain.  Further work was done yesterday (6 February) to help the sand bar burst just after 3pm yesterday afternoon.

The large high tide and heavy seas, particularly have restricted the flow of water from Belongil Creek to the ocean and this has contributed to the flooding in Byron Bay.

Tallow Creek at Suffolk Park opened naturally to the ocean around 4am.

Council also has staff inspecting infrastructure across the Shire, checking for flood and water damage.  This includes sewer and water infrastructure as well as areas in the hinterland that are prone to land slips.

“We did receive a lot of rain in a relatively short timeframe and this will always causes problems but we are working as fast as we can to get things back to normal,” Phil Warner, Acting Director Infrastructure Services, said.

The Australian Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) has issued a severe weather warning for the Northern Rivers.

The BoM said the weather system has the potential to cause minor flooding in the Tweed and Brunswick Rivers and the Marshalls Creek catchments. 

Byron Shire residents in flood-prone areas should go to www.bom.gov.au for information about the weather including rainfall and flooding predictions.

People affected by flooding or storms should contact the State Emergency Service (SES) on 132 500 for help. 

The SES advises people should:

Move vehicles under cover or away from trees. Secure or put away loose items around your house, yard and balcony.  Keep at least eight metres away from fallen power lines or objects that may be energised, such as fences.  Trees that have been damaged by fire are likely to be more unstable and more likely to fall.  Report fallen power lines to either Ausgrid (131 388), Endeavour Energy (131 003), Essential Energy (132 080) or Evoenergy (131 093) as shown on your power bill.  Don't drive, ride or walk through flood water. Keep clear of creeks and storm drains.  If you are trapped by flash flooding, seek refuge in the highest available place and ring 000 if you need rescue.  Be aware that run-off from rainfall in fire affected areas may behave differently and be more rapid. It may also contain debris such as ash, soil, trees and rocks.  After bushfires, heavy rain and the loss of foliage can make the ground soft and heavy, leading to a greater chance of landslides.  Stay vigilant and monitor conditions. Note that the landscape may have changed following bushfires. 

Problems on roads, including flooding and trees and other obstacles should contact Council on 6685 9300.  If reports need to be made after hours the emergency number is 6622 7022.

Information

Weather

 For the latest flood and weather warnings, rainfall, river level information and forecasts go to the Australian Bureau of Meteorology website – www.bom.gov.au.

SES

For help and information about storm and rain events go to www.ses.nsw.gov.au or call 132 500.

Road information

For information on road closures go to www.livetraffic.com or www.myroadinfo.com.au.

To report road closures or trees or obstacles on roads call Council on 6685 9300 or 6622 7022 (Emergency after hours).

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