Damage assessments continue as residents return to Hawkesbury properties

Residents in the Hawkesbury Nepean are starting to return home as clean-up efforts
continue following days of floods.

NSW SES volunteers have been undertaking damage assessments in Sackville,
Ebenezer, Pittown and Colo after evacuation orders were issued over the weekend.
To date, damage assessments have been undertaken by NSW SES crews in the
Northern Beaches, Illawarra and Hawkesbury Nepean area.

Residents in the Megalong Valley remain isolated following a major landslide on
Saturday. A police operation is currently underway in support of residents wishing to
evacuate.

NSW SES State Duty Commander, acting Assistant Commissioner Dallas Burnes, said
the current focus is on resupply of isolated communities and finalising damage
assessments.

“As we transition to recovery after the weekend’s heavy rainfall and storm activity, our
volunteers are out in the community undertaking damage assessments and supporting
community members with clean-up activities,” acting Assistant Commissioner Burnes
said.

Acting Assistant Commissioner Burnes said residents who are returning home should
do so with caution.

“Drive slowly, plan your route carefully to avoid any flooded roads and allow extra travel
time. Damage to roads and buildings caused by flooding may still exist in your area,”
acting Assistant Commissioner Burnes said.

“Be aware of road hazards including mud and debris and take care as local roads could
still have water over them. Check in on your neighbours, animals and livestock if safe to
do so.

“If you are isolated and require resupply, contact NSW SES on 132 500.”

To date, more than 5000 SES volunteers have been engaged across the state in support
of this weather event.