The Nepean River at Penrith has reached a height of 5.85 metres and remains at Minor Flood level, but continues to rise as heavy rain falls across the region.
The State Emergency Service (NSW) says further rises are possible in the coming days.
At this stage, the SES is warning that low-lying properties in the Regentville area could be impacted by dangerous floodwaters.
Warragamba Dam started spilling at 3am today after reaching capacity.
Consistently heavy rain has been falling in Penrith since mid-morning with dangerous conditions emerging on the roads.
Jamison Road has been closed at Jamisontown near Blaikie Road due to water across the road, while Mulgoa Road is closed near Mulgoa Creek at Glenmore Park.
Werrington Road is closed near The Kingsway, while York Road was closed at Jamisontown between Preston Street and Abel Street.
A short time ago, Wallacia Bridge was closed and then re-opened again.
Other roads across the area are impacted by floodwaters and people should avoid driving unless absolutely necessary.
Flooding is also impacting Woodriff Street in the Penrith CBD, near Judges Car Park and the Astina building.
#BREAKING The current situation on Woodriff St in Penrith near the Astina building and Judges Car Park. pic.twitter.com/pRQQMu8W4v
— Western Weekender (@wwpenrith) March 2, 2022
There was a steady stream of residents picking up sandbags at Jamison Park to protect their properties today.
Earlier today, students were evacuated from Nepean Christian School at Mulgoa and relocated to Mulgoa Village. Nepean High School also closed early due to concerns about localised flooding.
Atmosphere Gym at Tench Reserve is currently closed.
Rain will continue tonight and into much of next week.
Troy Dodds is the Weekender’s Managing Editor and Breaking News Reporter. He has more than 20 years experience as a journalist, working with some of Australia’s leading media organisations. In 2023, he was named Editor of the Year at the Mumbrella Publish Awards.