With the relentless winds that have been hitting the Municipality, the Kiama SES Unit has responded to many calls for help and are advising locals to keep an eye out for fallen power lines and trees. BOM recorded the highest wind gust in Kiama was 87km/h (47 knots) at 3:44am this morning.

UPDATE: 5.30pm A reader returning from Sydney has told us his train is stopped just short of Albion Park. A big tree has just fallen across the line ahead and the guard has warned of lengthy delays as wires down. Looks like all train services halted for some time.

“We’ve had around 30 jobs today and we’ve got extra volunteers and three trucks out in the field,” says Unit member Andrew McCullough.

“Most of the jobs have been for large trees that have fallen in the wind.

“Given the rain, everything is very wet and there’s a real risk of more trees falling down because they’re so sodden and wet.

“We’ve also had significant house and roof damage.”

Yesterday, a fallen power pole closed Crooked River Road and blacked out Gerroa.

Mr McCullough says that as we go into winter and the typically windier months of July and August, the SES advises to do prep work.

“Once the wind dies down, it’s time to consider trimming trees and clearing out gutters,” he says.

“While we are having this weather now, it’s likely to continue in the coming months as well.

“We’re seeing La Nina stick around through the winter, so there is also that real risk of flash flooding.”

Mr McCullough advises the community to call NSW SES on 132 500 if there are any emergencies, and to always stay away from any fallen power lines.