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Emergency services are on standby as an intense weather system approaches the South Coast, bringing heavy rain, wild winds and potential flooding and dangerous surf.
The Bureau of Meteorology issued a severe weather warning for heavy rainfall, hazardous surf and damaging winds on Tuesday, before a thunderstorm thrashed the region.
Shoalhaven's Porters Creek Dam has recorded the state's highest rainfall so far, copping 152mm to 9am Wednesday.
By 9am, Nowra had received 80.6mm, more than had been received in the entire month on October.
To 9am, 65.8mm had fallen over Ulladulla, almost double the September rainfall total.
Meteorologist Grace Legge said the low pressure system moved off the coast early Wednesday, deepening as it interacts with the ocean.
“As the system strengthens we will see significant rainfall wrap around it and affect coastal areas,” she said.
“Heavy rainfall between 50-100mm are forecast, with isolated falls above 200mm possible in some areas.”
Ms Legge said the heavy falls had the potential to cause flash flooding across the region. A flood watch has been issued for the coastal rivers between between the Central Coast and St Georges Basin.
Police have been urging motorists to take extra care on the roads today, as rain lashes the coast.
“The conditions we are experiencing today are some of the worst I’ve ever seen, and I am appealing to everyone, motorists and pedestrians alike, to take care,” said Assistant Commissioner Corboy.
“Once again we are asking all road users to reconsider the need to be on the roads throughout what will be a severe rain event today.”
Assistant Commissioner Corboy said drivers needed to reduce their speed, and drive to conditions today.
“We can’t stress enough that motorists should never attempt to drive through floodwaters or cross flooded causeways,” he said.
“Today’s weather will be particularly dangerous for motorcycle riders and cyclists and if they are on the road, they should wear bright-coloured clothing, be seen by other vehicles and share roads safely.
“There’s also the real potential for NSW Police, Ambulance, Fire and Rescue, SES, RFS and the VRA to be roadside with their red and blue lights flashing, so if you see emergency services on scene, drop down to 40km an hour on both sides of the road and pass them safely.”