Warnings have been issued by the Bureau of Meteorology ahead of the two-day drenching expected to hit the Riverina early on Wednesday.
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A severe weather warning for heavy rainfall has been issued, along with minor flood alerts for the Murrumbidgee River, as far as Wagga, and for the Tumut River.
Ex-Tropical Cyclone Esther is behind a slow-moving weather pattern is expected to bring falls of between 35 millimetres and 60mm of rain to Wagga on Wednesday, with a 95 per cent chance of a further 25mm to 45mm on Thursday.
The bureau is warning that heavy rain that could lead to flash flooding across parts of the Riverina, Southern Slopes, Snowy Mountains and Southern Tablelands areas.
Wagga, Albury, Tumbarumba, Griffith, Hay and Narrandera are expected to be affected, with the bureau saying that thunderstorms expected later on Wednesday and into Thursday could produce even more rain, leading to localised landslips.
State Emergency Service public information officer Ian Leckie said the expected heavy rain would be particularly of concern in areas hit by January bushfires, where the lack of vegetation increased the risk of landslips.
Mr Leckie warned there was also a real risk of localised and flash flooding across the wider region and cautioned people against driving into flood waters.
"I'm particularly concerned about people in those areas affected by the bushfires who could drive around a corner and straight into a landslip," he said.
The SES is asking people to remember:
- Don't drive, ride or walk through flood water.
- Keep clear of creeks and storm drains.
- If you are trapped by flash flooding, seek refuge in the highest available place and ring 000 if you need rescue.
- Be aware that run-off from rainfall in fire-affected areas may behave differently and be more rapid. It may also contain debris such as ash, soil, trees and rocks.
- After bushfires, heavy rain and the loss of foliage can make the ground soft and heavy, leading to a greater chance of landslides.
- Stay vigilant and monitor conditions. Note that the landscape may have changed following bushfires.
- For emergency help in floods and storms, ring your local SES unit on 132 500.
According to the bureau, the flood watch alert means that people living or working along rivers and streams should monitor the latest weather warnings and be ready to move to higher ground if flooding develops.
