Inverell and the district are predicted to receive a good splash of rain over the next 24 hours, with the precipitation due to arrive in the early hours of Thursday morning.
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Residents are advised to keep aware of updates from the State Emergency Services (SES) Inverell unit about possible flooding in the area.
As of 4pm Wednesday, March 29, the Australian Bureau of Meteorology predicted the Inverell area will have a 90 per cent chance of 10-20mm overnight with another 90 per cent chance of 20-40mm through Thursday.
The Inverell SES unit has advised a Minor to Moderate Flood Watch for the Upper Macintyre Valley, to provide early advice for possible future flooding along all rivers, creeks and overland flow paths within a nominated valley.
The BOM has stated a cold front moving through NSW during Thursday will interact with moisture from Tropical Cyclone Debbie, leading to widespread rain over the state's east. Particularly heavy rain is expected in parts of the northeast on Thursday, likely continuing into Friday as a low pressure trough deepens near the Queensland border.
This weather system has the potential to cause river flooding as well as local flash flooding to develop along the Upper Macintyre river valleys from Thursday onwards.
This Flood Watch means that people living or working along rivers and streams and adjoining rural areas must monitor the latest weather forecasts and warnings, and keep a watch on local rivers and streams.
If heavy further rainfall occurs, local roads may close and driving conditions could become dangerous. Creeks and streams could break their banks placing campers at risk. Livestock and equipment in low-lying paddocks may also be at risk.
If flooding develops:
• Move your livestock, pumps and farm equipment to higher ground
• Avoid driving or walking through flood water: it may be deeper and faster flowing than you realise
• Stay away from storm drains, creeks and rivers
• Keep in contact with your neighbours
If you need emergency assistance as a result of any flooding which develops, or sandbags to protect your property contact your local State Emergency Service Unit by calling 132 500.
The SES is monitoring the situation. If flooding develops warnings will be issued. Updates will be issued on the local radio station and via the SES Facebook page.
Flood warnings will be issued if minor flood levels are expected to be exceeded at key gauges.
Information on the weather and flood levels can be obtained from the Bureau of Meteorology website at www.bom.gov.au. Alternatively, you may phone 1300 659 218.
This flood watch will reviewed by 11am Thursday, March 30.