NSW floodwaters trap up to 10,000 people

Photo / Wairarapa Times-Age

Up to 10,000 people are isolated by floodwaters across NSW, as river levels peak across the state and cause major road closures.

However, there is some good news with a severe weather warning for the NSW mid-north coast cancelled, as the threat of heavy rain and flash flooding eases in the area.

Residents in Newcastle and the Central Coast can still expect widespread showers for much of Thursday, with flooding reported in the area.

Ten thousand people have been isolated by floodwaters which have hit the Hunter and mid-north coast since Sunday, according to State Emergency Services (SES).

The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) reported major flooding on Wednesday but said waters are now falling slowly.

In Wingham the Manning River peaked near 12.9 metres at about 2am (AEST) with major flooding reported.

The floodwaters have caused major road closures across the state including the Pacific Highway between Port Macquarie and Clybucca.

Ferry services, including the Bluff Point Ferry at Lawrence are out of service due to high water levels.

Emergency services have prepared for possible evacuations of Manning Point, as floodwaters isolate residents and inundate low lying properties, the BoM reported.

The SES is particularly concerned about the area's history of poor drainage, with fears that water could back-up through drains and sewerage systems.

Flood warnings are still being issued for Orara, Bellinger, Nambucca, Macleay, Hastings, Manning, Paterson-Williams and Tuggerah Lakes.

The Paterson River at Gostwyck Bridge is currently near its peak at 13.34 metres, causing major flooding.

Up to 398 millimetres fell during the 96 hours before 1am (AEST) this morning.

- AAP