The dramatic rescue of three people trapped on top of their car during a rapidly rising flood has led a busy day for NSW emergency services.
And the deluge shows no sign of easing. Several regions across the state are on alert, and severe weather and flood-watch warnings have been issued.
The Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter plucked three people from the roof of their four-wheel-drive on Tuesday morning on the south coast moments before a flood submerged the vehicle.
The two women and man were crossing a creek west of Moruya near Wamban when the 4WD became caught in the fast-flowing creek.
The trio were airlifted to a nearby paddock were paramedics were waiting.
They were treated for mild hypothermia, NSW Ambulance says.
According to the Bureau of Meteorology, Moruya was hit with 71mm of rain over the 24 hours until Tuesday at 6pm (AEST).
It was one of multiple flood rescues in the south coast region on Tuesday.
A man was rescued from his ute after it became stuck on a flooded road at Shellharbour.
SES spokesman Phil Campbell said horses were rescued from rising waters at Albion Park.
The SES received 60 calls for help up to 6pm Tuesday, mainly for leaky roofs and sandbagging in southern parts of the state, he said.
The focus will turn to the mid-north coast and Northern Rivers region on Wednesday, when heavy rain and possible flash flooding are forecast.
A flood watch is in place for the Bellinger, Orara, Richmond, Wilsons and Brunswick rivers.
NSW Ambulance Superintendent Wayne McKenna warned people to be cautious around floods during the next few days.
"Paramedics are unfortunately called to treat people who have been injured after attempting to undertake recreational activities in or around swollen waterways, including rivers and drains," he said.
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