Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) is coordinating the deployment of additional flood teams, including international in-water rescue specialists, as parts of the state's Central West are hit hard by record river rises.
A contingent of 18 Singaporean water rescue personnel arrived at Sydney Airport now, where it was welcomed by FRNSW Commissioner - Paul Baxter and others pioneering FRNSW's flood response efforts.
FRNSW strike team
The visiting crews will undertake a practical induction before being deployed to Parkes and Wagga Wagga in coming days.
A FRNSW strike team, made up of a team pioneer and four specialist firefighters, has now also left Sydney for Parkes, where it will assist with flood rescues, evacuations, and other taskings.
NSW SES-led operations
The in-water rescue technicians will join existing FRNSW resources positioned across the Central West
The in-water rescue technicians will join existing FRNSW resources positioned across the Central West, supporting the NSW State Emergency Service (NSW SES)-led operations. The latest flood event has been ongoing for 65 days.
Condobolin and Forbes are the latest focus for emergency services, with the Lachlan River still likely to rise to 10.8 meters, a peak not seen in 70 years.
FRNSW's further communities
Conditions in the affected areas are likely to remain dry until Saturday, when heavy rain, thunderstorms, and strong winds are expected to make a return. It's expected there will be further communities will be impacted as part of this weather system.
FRNSW reminds people to never drive, walk, ride through, play or swim in flood water - it is dangerous and toxic. If it's flooded, forget it.