Revised peak of 7.7 metres expected in Narrabri

A revised Narrabri Creek peak height of 7.7 metres is expected on Tuesday evening, the NSW SES Narrabri Unit has advised.

This is above the previously expected peak of 7.6 metres.

The heightened Narrabri Creek as well as other overflowing creeks throughout Narrabri has pushed floodwater into properties and residential streets.

Gibbons Street, east of Dangar Street, was closed to traffic early on Tuesday afternoon.

Old Gunnedah Road, south of Kaputar Road, was also a possibility to close due to excessive water.

Among the streets within Narrabri closed to traffic, as of Tuesday morning, were Huxley Street, the intersection of Peele and Clarke Street, Fraser Street, The Island Road, Wilga Street, Ugoa Street at both ends, the intersection of Violet Street and Hinds Street, Selina Street and the Tibbereena Street/Fitzroy Street bend.

The SES, however, quelled rumours about the possibility of Cooma Road closing.

“If water goes over the road, we have slow signs in place and traffic control if needed,” the Narrabri SES Unit said.

The major flooding event has also impacted the town’s sewer network, with Narrabri Shire Council urging people to limit their water usage as the floods have caused sewerage network difficulties.

“Narrabri Shire Council advises residents at this time, to be conservative with their water usage across all streets in the town of Narrabri,” council said.

“Please ensure you do not use excessive amounts of water and limit your consumption in the following areas, including but not limited to; reducing drinking water, washing dishes, and having long showers.”

On Monday night, emergency orders were introduced for parts of the town south of the Narrabri Creek, encouraging people to evacuate.

However, it was later clarified that due to the implementation of the new SES emergency warning system, an evacuation order had to be issued as properties would potentially see water enter on them.

“We have crews door knocking now, please be respectful as they have been directed to do this,” the SES advised on Monday evening.