A severe thunderstorm warning has been issued for much of the Far South Coast on Monday, with heavy rainfall expected to lead to flash flooding over the next several hours.
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There were reports of heavy rain at Narooma and Essential Energy crews responded to an unplanned power outage affecting 218 customers in Dalmeny.
Network protection equipment activated just before 6am this morning to isolate supply to the area after detecting a fault on the high voltage electricity network.
A fire could be seen smouldering at the top of the power pole on the corner of Mort Avenue and Haddrill Parade.
Regional Manager Southern, Sarah Roche said attending crews advised a build-up of salt, combined with weather factors, caused electricity to ark at the top of the power pole – resulting in Monday’s power outage.
An associated pole-top fire was extinguished by the Dalmeny Kianga RFS brigade.
Essential Energy crews secured the safety of the site, have isolated the damaged section of network and are completing repairs, including replacing the power pole, a cross-arm and other network equipment. It is anticipated that supply will be restored to customers by 6pm.
Customers are encouraged to report a power outage on 13 20 80 or visit essentialenergy.com.au/outages for updates.
Rainfall varied tremendously overnight with reports of only 1mm at Ridge Road, Tilba while just down the road, Mystery Bay received 25mm. Forecasts are calling for up to 65mm through the day.
Locations which may be affected by the storm warning include Narooma, Batemans Bay and Moruya Heads.
Winds will be southerly at 20 to 30 km/h, tending southeasterly at 30 to 40 km/h in the late afternoon.
A hazardous surf warning is also in place for the Batemans waters on Monday. Roads and Maritime Services has issued an alert to boaters after a Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) warning about dangerous surf conditions today and tomorrow along the Batemans and Eden coasts.
Surf and swell conditions are expected to be hazardous for coastal activities such as rock fishing, boating, and swimming in the following areas.
The State Emergency Service advises that people should:
- Keep clear of creeks and storm drains.
- Don't walk, ride your bike or drive through flood water.
- If you are trapped by flash flooding, seek refuge in the highest available place and ring 000 if you need rescue.
- Unplug computers and appliances.
- Avoid using the phone during the storm.
- Stay indoors away from windows, and keep children and pets indoors as well.
For emergency help in floods and storms, ring the SES (NSW and ACT) on 132 500.
