More help on the way to flood zones as FRNSW secures extra resources - Central West & Riverina
Published: 17 Nov 2022 03:03pm
Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) is coordinating the deployment of additional flood teams, including international in-water rescue specialists, as parts of the state's Central West are hit hard by record river rises.
A contingent of 18 Singaporean water rescue personnel arrived at Sydney Airport today, where it was welcomed by FRNSW Commissioner Paul Baxter and others leading FRNSW's flood response efforts.
The visiting crews will undertake a practical induction before being deployed to Parkes and Wagga Wagga in coming days.
A FRNSW strike team, made up of a team leader and four specialist firefighters, today also left Sydney for Parkes, where it will assist with flood rescues, evacuations and other taskings.
The in-water rescue technicians will join existing FRNSW resources positioned across the Central West, supporting the NSW State Emergency Service (NSW SES)-led operations.
The latest flood event has been ongoing for 65 days.
Condobolin and Forbes are the latest focus for emergency services, with the Lachlan River still likely to rise to 10.8 metres, a peak not seen in 70 years.
Conditions in the affected areas are likely to remain dry until Saturday, when heavy rain, thunderstorms and strong winds are expected to make a return.
It's expected there will be further communities will be impacted as part of this weather system.
FRNSW reminds people to never drive, walk, ride through, play or swim in flood water - it is dangerous and toxic. If it's flooded, forget it.
EDITORS NOTE: Video footage of the Singaporean teams arriving in Sydney, and the FRNSW strike team departing for the Central West, is available here - https://vimeo.com/771829662/9c8bdb86a4 [external link]
Updated: 27 Jan 2023 05:18pm
Details about this incident may change and should not be used as emergency information and/or advice.
For all life threatening emergencies, call Triple Zero (000)
For flood information, warnings or requests for non-life threatening assistance, call the SES on 132 500 or visit the NSW State Emergency Service website here. [external link].
For information directly relating to bushfires please call the Bush Fire Information Line on 1800 679 737 or visit the NSW Rural Fire Service Website here. [external link]