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Clean-up begins as NSW floodwaters recede

Sunday February 5, 2012 - 19:04 EDT

Flood-stricken communities in northern New South Wales have begun the mammoth task of cleaning up as floodwaters continue to recede.

With the Mehi River dropping rapidly, about 10,000 people evacuated from their homes in northern Moree this week have now been allowed to return to assess the damage, with 300 homes in the area inundated.

Moree is no longer cut off by floodwaters, with road access restored this morning, but SES spokeswoman Erin Pogmore says the flood emergency is far from over and people should not try to return to their homes until it is declared safe to do so.

"There is still a risk of flood rescues needing to be undertaken," she said.

Moree Plains Shire Mayor Katrina Humphries says now that the rain has stopped the area is heating up and there is a lot of stagnant water around.

"The place stinks to tell you the truth," she said.

She says volunteers are coming from everywhere to assist.

"They're just going around pumping out people's yards, pumping out under people's houses, helping people lift furniture," she said.

She has praised the spirit of the local community.

"You look at people, you just see their eyes are so dull, they're so physically and emotionally exhausted. This has been one huge battle," he said.

About 16,500 people have been cut off by floodwaters around the state.

Much of the north-west is still under water and emergency workers are now bracing for another wave of flooding further inland, as floodwaters from Queensland move down towards towns like Walgett, Brewarrina and Bourke.

*This map shows the weather situation in NSW over the past fortnight

2012