As the rain continues to fall, the Blue Mountains is experiencing a range of significant issues, from road closures, to fallen trees, and flooding.
Following the latest torrential rain and storm activity, the Blue Mountains was added to the list of Natural Disaster Areas on Monday 7 March (backdated to 22 February), and unfortunately, more rain is predicted this week.
Council is urging residents to exercise extreme caution, and minimise movements around the City, as much as possible.
Blue Mountains Mayor, Cr Mark Greenhill, said: “The Council and I are urging everyone to limit movements and to be extremely careful if you need to move around. The risks are very real, and very high. Be aware of falling trees – the immense amount of rain that has fallen has softened the ground considerably.
“This is the third major storm and flood event we’ve experienced in as many years, and it is taking its toll on our natural environment, our infrastructure, and on our community,” Mayor Greenhill said. “Being added to the Natural Disaster Areas list is a good thing. It opens doors to resources and support mechanisms that will be vital to managing the crisis, and in the clean up to follow.
“I’d also strongly encourage everyone to make use of the new Emergency Dashboard Council launched at the end of last year. It’s a brilliant resource designed to provide local, up to the minute information during these kinds of events.
The Emergency Dashboard includes updates from emergency services, latest news, and local road closures, as well as helpful recovery information. You can access the dashboard online: emergency.bmcc.nsw.gov.au
Need help?
For all storm-related damage, including trees you think are at imminent risk of falling, your first call should be to the SES on 132 500. They are equipped and resourced to respond during this kind of emergency and weather event.
If you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency, as always, call 000 immediately.
If you need to report an issue with a local (Council-owned) road or facility, you can do so via:
• Council’s website: bmcc.nsw.gov.au/report-an-issue
