Rain continues as natural disaster declared for Byron Shire

Rain continues as natural disaster declared for Byron Shire

Published on 13 February 2020

Rain has continued to dump on the Byron Shire with Goonengerry receiving 183mm in the 24 hours to 9am this morning (13 February). 168mm was recorded at Mullumbimby and Cape Byron received 122mm.

It comes after the Australian and NSW Governments announced disaster assistance for 56 local government areas including the Byron Shire.

This means Council will receive financial help in covering the cost of responding to the emergency as well as repairing damaged infrastructure such as roads.

Assistance may also be available to people and businesses. 

Heavy rain today is causing flooding in some areas many roads are closed.

Council staff are responding to emergencies including trees over roads and drainage problems.

People are advised to check www.myroadinfo.com.au for information on roads as this is being updated as information comes in. 

Motorists should not drive through flood water at any time and people who are doing this are contributing to flooding, creating waves of water that are pushing into properties.

The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a Hazardous Surf Warning for the Byron coast and surf and swell conditions are expected to be hazardous for coastal activities such as rock fishing, boating and swimming.

Information

Weather

For weather information go to www.bom.gov.au.

The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a Hazardous Surf Warning. NSW Police Force, Marine Area Command advise that:

People should consider staying out of the water and avoid walking near surf-exposed areas. Rock fishers should avoid coastal rock platforms exposed to the ocean and seek a safe location that is sheltered from the surf. Boaters planning to cross shallow water and ocean bars should consider changing or delaying their voyage. Boaters already on the water should carry the appropriate safety equipment and wear a lifejacket. Boaters should remember to log on with their local Marine Rescue radio base, via VHF Radio or the Marine Rescue APP, and consider their safety management.

Waste

Waste collection services are continuing as scheduled. 

Council’s Resource Recovery Centre at Myocum is closed until further notice as a result of the heavy rain.

Roads

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

To report debris and obstacles on roads, such as trees, call 6685 9300.

Sporting fields

Sporting fields in the Byron Shire are closed until further notice.

Pools

Mullumbimby and Byron Bay pools are open.

Information on Disaster Assistance

Disaster Welfare Assistance Line – 1800 018 444 NSW Rural Assistance Authority – 1800 678 593 or www.raa.nsw.gov.au

For media enquiries call Annie Lewis, Media and Communication Coordinator on 6626 7320.