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The Northern Rivers SES in New South Wales has issued an urgent warning for South Lismore residents to evacuate by 9 PM tonight. This evacuation is necessary due to flooding caused by Cyclone Alfred.
The warning includes South Lismore and surrounding areas, including Kyogle Road (between Casino and Leycester Roads), low-lying areas near Ostrom Street, the industrial area, and parts of the north of Hollingsworth Creek. Residents in these areas are advised to leave immediately as forecasted heavy rainfall may block evacuation routes later in the night.
Residents who remain in the area could face being trapped without essential services such as power and water. The NSW SES also stated that floodwaters could cause severe damage to buildings, making rescue operations too dangerous. Authorities also warned of rapidly rising river levels, flash flooding, and coastal hazards like high tides and large waves.
Cyclone Alfred is expected to bring intense rainfall to the region from Thursday through the weekend. The SES is urging people to leave their homes while it is still light out, as it will become more difficult and dangerous to evacuate after dark. For those who need shelter, an evacuation centre has been set up at Southern Cross University on Military Road in East Lismore.
NSW Premier Chris Minns and other local officials have emphasized the importance of evacuating early to avoid becoming trapped. Strong winds, heavy rain, and the risk of storm surges will continue to impact the area over the coming days, potentially causing power outages and making roads impassable.
SES Chief Superintendent Stuart Fisher warned of a "three-pronged attack" from Cyclone Alfred: coastal erosion, intense winds that may bring down trees and power lines, and heavy rainfall. These factors combined could result in significant flooding and damage.
The evacuation order extends to other areas in northern NSW, including parts of Tweed, Lismore, and the Richmond catchment. Authorities expect more areas to be issued evacuation orders in the coming hours as the storm progresses.
Residents are urged to follow the advice of emergency services, stay informed about the weather, and take action to ensure their safety and the safety of their families.
