Australian Defence Force troops will be called in to help with the growing NSW flood emergency today.
A spokesperson for Prime Minister Scott Morrison made the announcement last night.
“Emergency Management Australia have received an official request for assistance from NSW,” the spokesperson said.
“The request is for two search and rescue helicopters operating out of the NSW South Coast for 24-hour operations. ADF will be able to provide this support and will commence service tomorrow [Tuesday].”
Nationally, more than 1,100 ADF personnel are already deployed as part of Operation COVID-19 Assist.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison said the ADF was “readying itself” for the flood task ahead.
“Particularly in the recovery phase. It is working closely with NSW Emergency Services to coordinate potential areas for assistance,” he said.
Meanwhile, a severe weather warning for heavy rainfall, abnormally high tides and damaging winds has been issued by the Bureau of Meteorology for the entire NSW coastline.
The NSW SES said it had received 1485 requests for assistance in the 24 hours to last night, with 125 flood rescues conducted.
More than 5,000 insurance claims have already been lodged across the state due to damage caused by the flooding so far.
