The impacts of the weeks of heavy rain have authorities asking people to avoid affected national parks for their safety, especially as predicted winds increase risk of tree fall.
The wild weather has not only tragically affected many communities, it has also left many national parks waterlogged with flooding, landslips, damaged access roads and washed out walking tracks.
The current forecast high winds along the coast and adjacent ranges will also create an increased risk of tree fall within and around the reserves system.
This poses a serious risk to visitors to our parks and for rescue emergency services workers should they need to respond to an emergency.
The easiest way people can help reduce unnecessary load on the already hardworking emergency services and the recovery efforts is to avoid putting yourself in dangerous situations in the first place.
People are reminded to think carefully about moving around during these weather events and avoid any unnecessary travel. Some park roads as well as access roads may not be passable and may close at short notice.
Check websites or call ahead in remote areas. Access to some parks has changed due to road closures.
Be mindful of trees. Soggy ground and winds increase the risk of tree falls. Do not shelter or camp under trees.
Help may not be able to reach you or you may experience extensive delays should you get stuck, particularly in remote areas.
People should check before visiting national parks as many are closed and this can change rapidly.
Visit the National Parks and Wildlife Service website first to check and observe park closures in the Alerts list.
Check Live Traffic NSW websites frequently before travelling. Do not enter closed areas. Do not cross floodwaters. Conditions are currently treacherous and recent rains have likely altered conditions of causeways.
