Motorists and trucks have been urged to stay off the road this weekend as the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) forecasts heavy rainfall and floods in parts of the East Coast in Australia.
Several states, including Queensland and New South Wales, are expected to be severely affected. Major parts of Sydney are also expected to be drenched with rain, which could flood bridges and roads.
The BoM urges motorists and trucks to stay off the roads to avoid life-threatening scenarios. Delivery trucks and long-hauling vehicles are usually on the main roads over the weekend. The wet surface could impact drivers’ response time and the brakes.
Flights canceled in Sydney, Australia
The Guardian reports that dozens of flights have been canceled at Sydney Airport. NSW premier Chris Minns told a press conference that the bad weather is expected to subside by Sunday.
“We have a flood watch for many rivers on the East Coast and some inland,” says Minns.
Several roads were also closed on Friday due to the severe flood warnings.
There are warnings that up to 100mm could fall within a short period of time.
Commuters left stranded
It’s causing havoc not only for road commuters but also in the sky. Some businessmen who travel during the work week have found themselves stuck with most flights canceled on Friday evening.
Train services, including cargo trains, have also been impacted.
The heavy rainfall impacted Redfern’s equipment and infrastructure.
Evacuation orders issued
Shortly before 8 pm on Friday, residents in low-lying areas along Chipping Norton were told to evacuate. Hazard Watch recommends evacuating before midnight, as the Georges River continues to rise.
Evacuation centers have been set up along Club Liverpool on 185 George Street, Chipping North. The NSW State Emergency Service can be contacted on 132 500 for assistance.
Residents in Moree and Boggabilla were warned to remain indoors, while those in Thora, Darkwood, and surrounding areas were told to isolate.
Meanwhile, residents in the following areas were informed to prepare for evacuation:
- Gronos Point.
- Sackville.
- Lower Portland, east of Hawkesbury River.
Weather impact on cargo deliveries
According to the Weather Zone, more damaging winds are expected along the Sydney and Hunter coasts tonight and tomorrow morning. An average of around 60 to 70 km/h and gusting up to 90km/h.
It has the potential to topple trees and impact transport into the weekend. Flights are expected to continue operating at reduced numbers for the next day.
Weather Zone says the weather in Sydney, Australia has experienced in the last 30 hours is usually what is expected for the entire month.
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Mia is a multi-award-winning journalist. She has more than 14 years of experience in mainstream media. She's covered many historic moments that happened in Africa and internationally. She has a strong focus on human interest stories, to bring her readers and viewers closer to the topics at hand.
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