Relentless rain continues to lash Penrith, causing havoc on the roads and sparking warnings of looming evacuations in some areas.
The Nepean River has reached Minor flooding levels at Penrith, sitting at just under six metres and rising rapidly. It is likely to reach Moderate level later this morning.
Almost 100mm of rain has fallen in Penrith since 9am yesterday and the Bureau of Meteorology warns double that could fall in the next 24 hours
Heavy rain is also forecast on Monday.
The Wallacia Bridge is closed while Springwood Road is closed at Agnes Banks. Localised flooding is causing other sudden road closures or sudden flooding of roads.
Penrith State Emergency Service (SES) is warning people not to drive through flood water. They assisted a man who had tried to drive through water at The Kingsway, only to have his engine flooded.
SES volunteers have been working throughout the night assisting residents with leaking and damaged homes, and attending to trees down on roads.
Evacuation warnings and orders may be issued throughout the day as the situation worsens.
Residents at Wallacia between Silverdale Road and the Nepean River have already been warned to evacuate.
The Nepean Belle has confirmed its cruises today have been cancelled, while most local sport will be off.
Anyone who needs help from the SES should call 132 500. In an emergency, call 000.
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.
