During 4-6 June 2016, the entire coast of New South Wales was affected by an East Coast Low (ECL). The event caused widespread rainfall, strong winds and flash flooding. The combined effect of the surf and king tides caused erosion along the coastline.
Affected areas included:
- the Northern and Southern coastal regions
- Sydney Northern Beaches
- South West metropolitan region.
The storm caused two fatalities and widespread property damage, including leaking roofs, wind damage and minor inundation. While approximately 600 houses were affected, damage was minor in the majority of cases. The storm directly affected 130 businesses. In the central business district of Picton, 81 businesses sustained damage – over half of the approximate total of 128.
The Insurance Council of Australia is estimated the cost of the storm to be in excess of $304 million in New South Wales.
State Emergency Service response
There was a significant State Emergency Service (SES) response to the storm, with over 11,000 requests for assistance. Engaging members from Tweed Heads to Eden, the SES conducted 17 general rescues and 310 flood rescues. Of the latter, 182 involved vehicles).
The SES was supported in high-impact areas by a range of other New South Wales state agencies:
- Fire and Rescue
- Rural Fire Service
- Police Force
- Ambulance Service
- Volunteer Rescue Association.