Significant rainfall in Queensland, North West and Namoi regions has resulted in major flooding along the Narran, Namoi, Peel, Macintyre and Gwydir river systems with this water making its way towards Lightning Ridge.

The SES anticipates the river levels at Walgett will reach 13 metres by about Sunday with major flooding expected.

It is expected that this height will be sufficient to cut the Castlereagh Highway between Lightning Ridge and Walgett for an extended period.

Access to Walgett from Lightning Ridge, via Cumborah will also be cut at the Dangar Bridge near the Brewarrina turnoff and it is expected that the road to Goodooga will also be closed.

Major flooding is currently occurring in Queensland at Dirranbandi and St George.

There is no access into Queensland north of Hebel. As the floodwaters progress south it is expected the Narran River will spill at the New Angledool and cut the road at Weetalibah crossing.

As a result of this floodwater, Lightning Ridge may be isolated for an extended period however at this stage the isolation period is unknown.

The Lightning Ridge SES wishes to reassure the community that it will facilitate the supply of essential goods and services to Lightning Ridge during the period of isolation.

The SES is available to assist residents of the Lightning Ridge area with requests for assistance and for urgent evacuations by calling 132 500.

The SES does not have the resources available to transport people for personal or business purposes.

These floodwaters will have a significant impact on the shire’s road network as they make their way downstream into the Walgett Shire.

Heavy rainfall in the area has also resulted in the closure of all unsealed roads within the shire.