CONTRACTORS have rushed to stabilise road ends along a coastal strip in Collaroy, as council warns the large swell may cause "some impacts" in the next 24 hours.
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As the east coast low approaches, an internal alert was issued to councillors on Friday morning that warned of of "abnormally high" tides up to 2.1 metres, and significant wave heights up to seven metres.
The Northern Beaches Review has obtained a copy of the alert that was issued by council's environment and climate change department.
"We may see some coastal erosion at some locations across the northern beaches, including within Pittwater, depending on swell size and direction," the alert said.
On Friday, private contractors were at Collaroy preparing the area ahead of the wild weather.
"The site is at a difficult stage, stabilising the road ends by restacking the existing rock following completion of the private works," the alert said.
"We are all preparing as best we can, but in light of expected swell in [the] next 24 hours some impacts may be experienced. We will monitor and obviously take any further steps as necessary in conjunction with the contractors."
The alert also stated that Narrabeen Lagoon and Manly Lagoon entrances were "open and are flowing freely".
"We do expect outflows will be impacted particularly at the peak of the tides, and when the maximum wave heights arrive at midnight tonight [Friday]," it states. "Staff are monitoring closely and providing intelligence to emergency services as it comes to hand."
Great Mackerel Beach is being closely monitored following an erosion event last week. SES and RFS crews there have a large supply of sandbags to provide immediate support to residents if required.
Manly Dam levels rose again during the last rainfall event, the alert stated. "All valves are now open to increase flood storage ahead of the rainfall," it said.
Dee Why and Curl Curl Lagoon entrances are open. Staff are undertaking inspections, and all teams are continuing to secure and repair damage which occurred during the storms in early March.
Marine Parade, Manly is being monitored for public safety and the potential for overtopping.
The alert urged any concerned residents to call council's 24/7 customer service line on 1300 434 434 or to visit the customer service help page here.
Meanwhile, the Bureau of Meteorology has issued a severe weather warning for damaging winds and dangerous surf, with wind gusts up to 100k/m possible.
At 5.30pm on Friday, there were no 'flood watch' or 'flood evacuation' alerts issued by the SES for the northern beaches.
For emergency help with flood or storm damage call the SES on 132 500. For life threatening emergencies call triple-0.
Safety Advice
- Stay out of the water and avoid walking near surf-exposed areas.
- Rock fishers should avoid coastal rock platforms exposed to the ocean and seek a safe location that is sheltered from the surf.
- Boaters planning to cross shallow water and ocean bars should consider changing or delaying their voyage.
- Boaters already on the water should carry the appropriate safety equipment and wear a lifejacket.
- Boaters should remember to log on with their local marine rescue radio base, via VHF radio or the Marine Rescue app, and consider their safety management plan.
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Nadine Morton
Nadine Morton covers emergency services and breaking news for the Illawarra Mercury. She takes pride in regional journalism which she believes is crucial to informing our towns and cities. Have a story? Email her at nadine.morton@austcommunitymedia.com.au
Nadine Morton covers emergency services and breaking news for the Illawarra Mercury. She takes pride in regional journalism which she believes is crucial to informing our towns and cities. Have a story? Email her at nadine.morton@austcommunitymedia.com.au
