Parts of the town of Maclean on the Clarence River are subject to an evacuation warning order

A 3.2 metre flood peak is now expected to pass through Maclean at approximately 7a.m. this morning, Thursday 13 January 2011, and this SES advisory is still active:

Flood Evacuation Warning for Low Lying Areas of Maclean

Authorised By: Caroline Ortel – Operations Controller - 12 January 2011, 6:32pm

The Bureau of Meteorology has predicted that the Clarence River will peak at Maclean near 3.2 metres tomorrow (Thursday 13 January) morning. The State Emergency Service recommends that residents within the low lying areas of Maclean in River Street, McLachlan Street, John Street, Iona Close, Howard Street, Argyle Street, Bakers Lane, Rannoch Street, Dwartes Lane, Rush Lane, Hogues Lane and Central Avenue should be prepared to evacuate in the next 12 hours.

Residents should monitor the situation and be prepared to evacuate if instructed to do so. A Flood Evacuation Order will be issued by the SES if evacuation is required.

An evacuation centre will be established at Maclean Showground Pavilion where you can obtain temporary accommodation and other help. Alternatively you can also choose to go to friends or relatives.

To prepare for possible evacuation you should:

•Raise belongings by placing them on tables, beds and benches. Put electrical items on top. You may be able to place light weight items in the roof space.
•Collect together medicines, personal and financial documents, mementos and photos
•If possible, check to see if your neighbours need help
•Make arrangements for care of pets or other animals, or take your pets with you when you evacuate
•Be prepared to take three days’ supply of clothing and medicines
•Find out where to turn off the electricity and gas
•Continue to listen to a local radio station for updates
Don’t walk ride or drive through floodwaters – this is the main cause of death and injury during floods

For emergency assistance telephone the SES on 132 500

Web site: www.ses.nsw.gov.au

Mark Bellamy's most recent flood photos here.

UPDATE:

Flood peak passed through Maclean early this morning at approximately 0.6m below levee height so evacuation warning was withdrawn.

Peak passed though Yamba without incident during a low-tide period, but the town is still cut-off. Clarence Valley Council has opened a temporary 'base' in Treelands Drive Community Centre, Yamba, Ph: 6643.0200