Sydney’s Warragamba Dam is set to spill after days of heavy rainfall this week.
WaterNSW said the catchment is expected to reach full capacity in the coming hours.
Residents downstream from the dam have been urged to stay away from fast flowing or deep water near waterways and floodplains.
“These hazards potentially threaten the safety of you and your property. Never drive, ride or walk through floodwater,” the spokesperson said.
“The community should refer to the Bureau of Meteorology website for river heights, weather forecasts and warnings.”
The NSW State Emergency Service (SES) is providing supplies to thousands of residents across 15 towns, which are still isolated due to floodwaters.
There are still 148 flood warnings across the state, with 24 emergency level warnings, mostly for isolated towns.
Over the last 24 hours, emergency services have responded to 864 incidents, including 44 flood rescues.
“I know there’s blue skies at the moment, which is good news but we’re asking you to look at your app rather than the sky before making a decision.
“The concern we have at the moment is road slippage and landslides. The SES and police have the best and latest information.”
Authorities will turn their attention to the clean-up, damage assessment and replenishing supplies.
“Now that we’re through the worst of the weather, we want people to be safe during the clean-up phase,” Minns said.
Authorities estimate almost 10,000 properties will require damage assessment.
The SES said earlier today that the situation was still considered dangerous.
“I reiterate this is still a dangerous situation where significant impacts to infrastructure and properties are likely to have occurred,” SES Chief Superintendent Paul McQueensaid.
“Unfortunately, it is not possible to let people return to their homes until water further subsides and we’re sure they can access their homes and communities safely.
“Homes and businesses may need to be inspected by a qualified electrician.”
Residents are still being urged to avoid driving or walking through floodwaters, with 52 rescues in the past 24 hours.
“We will continue to resupply those isolated residents by land, water and air as part of our multi-agency response, McQueen said.
“We ask you to be patient, remain in a safe location and please don’t be tempted to drive through floodwaters or go sightseeing.”
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