THERE is a major chance of flooding in the local region this weekend, the Bureau of Meteorology has warned.
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While it has not issued a flood warning, the Bureau issued a 'heads up' earlier today warning of a greater than 75 per cent chance of major flooding as well as local flash flooding along the coast from the Queensland border to Taree.
Flooding is expected to develop from late Saturday and into Sunday and Monday as ex-tropical cyclone Oswald moves south over the weekend, bringing widespread heavy rain with it.
Major flooding is expected along the Hastings and at Camden Haven (Logans Crossing).
Some forecasters believe Port Macquarie will receive between 40mm and 80mm of rain on Saturday followed by more than 80mm on Saturday and another 80mm on Sunday.
Falls will continue into early next week.
Those people living or working along rivers and streams are advised to monitor the latest weather forecasts and be ready to move to higher ground should flooding develop.
Flood warnings will be issued if minor flooding is expected to be exceeded at key sites along main rivers.
The Bureau is also warning of gale force winds and damaging surf.
Conditions could be hazardous for holiday-makers and people travelling home for the start of the new school year.
NSW SES Commissioner Murray Kear has urged holidaymakers to be mindful of the weather when travelling this weekend.
"People intending to travel to these areas should keep updated on weather information and have an emergency plan ready in the event of severe weather. Rivers, creeks and streams can rise quickly during storms so it's important, particularly for campers, to be aware of the conditions and move to higher ground if bad weather sets in," he said.
"If you come across a flooded road on your travels, don't drive through it because you are not only risking your life and the lives of your family but our volunteers who have to come and rescue you.
"If you need emergency help in a flood or storm call the NSW SES on 132 500 but if your situation is life-threatening call 000," Commissioner Kear added.
FloodSafe advice is available at www.ses.nsw.gov.au
For emergency assistance call the SES on telephone number 132 500.
For life threatening emergencies, call 000 immediately.