Parts of Wauchope flooding - Shelter now
ISSUED
NEXT UPDATE
NSW State Emergency Service
Emergency Warning
Shelter now
The NSW SES is advising people in the following area(s) to SHELTER NOW due to major flooding:
- Parts of Wauchope between King Creek and Stoney Creek Road
It is now too late to leave safely as evacuation routes are likely to be cut off. Seek shelter in a sturdy raised structure that can be safely accessed. You may now be trapped without power, water, and other essential services and it may be too dangerous for NSW SES to rescue you.
What are we expecting?
This emergency warning to Shelter Now was first issued 11:21 on the 21/05/2025. It has been updated based on flood predictions from the Bureau of Meteorology.
If you are located in the warning area, NSW SES advises that you continue to shelter in place.
Do not enter floodwater.
Do not enter a roof cavity as you may become trapped.
The Hastings River at Wauchope is currently at 5.98 metres and steady, with major flooding.
The Hastings River at Wauchope may reach around 7.00 metres late Thursday, with forecast rainfall.
The river level is likely to remain above the major flood level (5.50 m) for the remainder of Thursday into Friday.
Further rainfall is forecast across the catchment for the remainder of Thursday into Friday, which may result in renewed river level rises and prolonged flooding.
This event may change quickly. NSW SES will monitor the situation and update warnings if the situation changes.
What you need to do:
- If you have a Home or Business Emergency Plan, follow it. Otherwise, have a conversation and plan for what you will do and take with you if you need to evacuate.
- Gather your essential possessions. These might include mobile phone, charger, battery-powered radio, medicine, rain gear, warm clothes, blankets, baby and pet items, water, food, torch, something to attract attention, and valuables like photos and insurance or banking records.
- Stay inside and be aware of rising floodwater.
- People working or camping along the river should monitor river heights and be prepared to relocate to higher ground.
- If floodwater comes inside, move to a higher point such as a kitchen bench or second storey. Do not enter your roof cavity unless you have a safe exit point.
- Contact family members, friends, or neighbours to ensure they are aware of the situation, and your location, if safe to do so.
- If you require resupply, contact NSW SES on 132 500
For more information:
- Listen to your local ABC radio station which can be found at reception.abc.net.au
- ABC Mid North Coast 684 AM Kempsey
- Download the Hazards Near Me app and set your watch zones to get warning information for your areas.
- Follow us on social media @NSWSES or visit our website at www.ses.nsw.gov.au
- Learn about your risk at www.ses.nsw.gov.au/knowyourrisk
- Check latest weather, warnings, rainfall and river heights at www.bom.gov.au/nsw/
- Check road closures at www.livetraffic.com.au or 132 701 or your local Council.
- Contact your Local Land Services Office for rural animal and livestock assistance at lls.nsw.gov.au or call 1300 795 299
For emergency assistance during a flood, storm or tsunami, call the NSW SES on 132 500. In a life-threatening emergency, call Triple Zero (000).
Media enquiries: media@ses.nsw.gov.au or call 1800 067 234