Raymond Terrace, Hinton, Osterley and Wallalong have the subject of minor flooding

Areas of Raymond Terrace, Hinton, Osterley and Wallalong have been the subject of minor flooding between Thursday, March 3 and Tuesday, March 8, forcing the closure of some roads and primary schools.

"We will continue to monitor and review the conditions in the coming days," Alysha Springett, deputy unit commander of the Raymond Terrace-based Port Stephens State Emergency Service unit, said.

"Several roads in Hinton have been closed due to rising water levels, as well as Newline Road in Raymond Terrace and Seaham [between Beaton Avenue and East Seaham Road].

"Other road closures include sections of Swan Street and Glenelg Street in Raymond Terrace."

Ms Springett said that the rising river levels had also impacted on low-lying areas of Woodville and Seaham and warned motorists about the dangers of attempting to drive across roads and passageways with water over them.

"Residents in these low-lying areas should have their flood plan ready, that is what to take if the need to evacuate arises, where to go and when to go."

Mount Kanwary, Hinton and Seaham public schools were closed on Tuesday due to the "risk to student and staff safety". Advice is for parents and carers in heavily impacted areas is to keep school children home until "further notice".

A severe weather warning by the Bureau of Meteorology remains in place for the Hunter for heavy rainfall, which may lead to flash flooding, damaging and gale force winds plus damaging and hazardous surf.

Consistent rain is forecast for Port Stephens through to at least Monday.

The BOM issued a minor flood warning for the Hunter River at Raymond Terrace on Tuesday afternoon. The river was expected to reach around 2.70m at 5pm on Tuesday, slightly after the high tide, producing minor flooding.

"Further rises are possible coinciding with the high tides," the BOM stated.

John Maretich, Port Stephens Council's asset section manager, said moderate

to heavy rainfall had been recorded in parts of the Upper and Lower Hunter River catchment since Sunday which was producing some flooding that will likely remain until late this week.

"Backwater flooding in southern Raymond Terrace, Hinton and parts of Seaham continues and is likely to remain until later this week," Mr Maretich said.

"There is also the possibility of some flooding from the Hunter River at Raymond Terrace.

"Farmers on low-lying land close to rivers and creeks are urged to monitor livestock, pumps and other equipment. Waste and chemical containers should be located well above predicted flood levels.

"Residents of low-lying areas near the river should keep an active watch on the flood waters. If you live in a low-lying area and are advised by an emergency services officer to evacuate, please do so.

"Road potholes form quickly in the rain. Temporary repairs will occur as soon as possible, with longer term fixes programmed once weather improves.

"Road conditions vary during heavy rain periods. Please drive to the conditions."

Newline Road, Swan Street, Hunter Street and Glenelg Street at Raymond Terrace were closed by Port Stephens Council last weekend due to water being over the road. These roads are regularly subject to flooding.

The carpark under the William Bailey Bridge at Raymond Terrace is also closed.

The southern end of Medowie Road at Campvale, closest to the Richardson Road roundabout, will remain closed until at least Friday after heavy rain last Thursday caused the road surface to become unsafe to motorists. A detour is in place.

The council has also urged motorists travelling through Seaham to "use caution". Heavy rainfall has caused damage to the surface of Seaham Road near the intersection of Alexander Drive.

Further SES and council advice is to refrain from walking or driving through flood water.

Paterson MP Meryl Swanson and Port Stephens MP Kate Washington have also been vocal in asking people to stay out of flood waters.

"Stay out of flood waters, continue to monitor for warnings, and avoid affected areas if possible," Ms Swanson said.

A Public Information Inquiry Centre is open for up-to-date information on the flood emergency. Phone 1800 227 228 (24-hour line). For rural animal and livestock assistance phone Local Land Services on 1800 814 647 or go to lls.nsw.gov.au.

In life threatening emergencies, phone 000 (triple zero) immediately. If you require rescue, assistance to evacuate or other emergency help phone NSW SES on 132 500.

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