Despite Premier Gladys Berejiklian declaring a state of natural disaster for the Central Coast region, the Peninsula weathered almost a week of torrential rain which began on March 18 surprisingly well.
Although some residents reported minor flooding incidents, no Peninsula roads were closed, with many crediting the area’s sandy land base for a lack of more serious incidents.
The most significant effects on the Peninsula were severe build-ups of floodwaters on roadsides, highlighting the area’s ongoing drainage issues, the re-emergence of numerous potholes and debris being washed up on local beaches, with Patonga the hardest hit.
As Central Coast Council warned residents to secure loose items around their homes and move vehicles away from trees, the Peninsula remained comparatively unscathed, despite averaging over 60mm of rain each day from March 18-23.
The highest daily rainfall was recorded at Woy Woy, which received 106mm of rain in the 24 hours to 9am on March 19.
March 19 offered a slight reprieve from the rain, but it returned with a vengeance on March 20, with Woy Woy recording 105mm in the 24 hours to 9am March 21 and heavy rains continuing on the Peninsula until March 23.
Power was lost to 26 homes at Patonga on March 20, with Ausgrid still working to restore power on March 24.
An Ausgrid spokesperson said access was the key to restoring the power.
“The rain has made access difficult, and then once that is achieved, the problem needs to be assessed and then actioned,” the spokesperson said.
Umina Beach Surf Life Saving Club has despatched a boat to assist Central Coast crews travelling north to assist with flood rescue duties on the lower north coast.
Ocean Beach and Umina Beach Surf Life Saving Clubs have been put on notice and have prepared additional resources and call out crews to be rescue ready for possible assistance duties in the Hawkesbury region.
Residents who do experience water and sewer emergencies should call 1300 463 954.
Any Peninsula residents who have been severely impacted could be eligible for a payment of $1000 (adults) and $400 (children).
The Disaster Recovery Payment can be accessed by calling 180 22 66.
Terry Collins