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Wet weather and service disruptions

Hunter Water is committed to keeping essential services running smoothly – even during severe weather.

Storms, heavy rain and flooding can sometimes cause temporary disruptions or slower response times.

Here is how we prepare, respond and keep your services running safely and reliably, no matter the weather.

How wet weather affects our networks

Heavy rain, storms and flooding can put extra pressure on our water, wastewater and sewer networks. This can lead to:

  • Overflowing stormwater drains or manholes
  • Sewer system backups in low-lying areas
  • Delays in planned maintenance or repairs
  • Electricity outages at pump stations and treatment plants

Report an overflow

Call us immediately and we will send a crew to assist as soon as it is safe.

Report an overflow - Call our team 24/7

What to do if there's a sewage overflow

If you notice sewage coming up through toilets, drains or outside your property:

  1. Avoid the area to reduce health risks
  2. Keep children and pets well away
  3. Do not try to clean it yourself unless it is minor and safe to handle
  4. Contact us if you experience property damage.

More info about overflows and clean-up

If you have reported a sewage overflow, here is what you can expect next:

  • Clean-up timeframes

    Once it is safe, our crew will visit your property to assess the situation. In most cases, we will organise a professional clean-up within 24 to 48 hours.

  • What Hunter Water covers

    If the overflow was caused by our network, we will manage and pay for the clean-up of affected outdoor areas and some internal spaces. You may need to contact your insurer for items like carpets, furniture or belongings.

  • Follow-up visits

    We might need to inspect the area again after the clean-up to make sure everything is safe. You do not need to be home unless we need to access inside your property – in which case, we will contact you to arrange a suitable time.

    If you are unsure about anything, please get in touch. We are here to help.

    • Use Live Chat during business hours

How we respond

Our teams are on standby during extreme weather. We monitor conditions 24/7 and are ready to:

  • Respond to overflows and blockages
  • Protect key sites and infrastructure
  • Work with emergency services where needed

We keep a close eye on the weather and act quickly to maintain safe, reliable services, no matter the conditions.

Check current service interruptions

For updates on outages, overflows or service disruptions in your area, visit our current water outages page.

The interactive map provides real-time information on both planned and unplanned interruptions, helping you stay informed about any issues affecting your water services.

Need extra help during wet weather?

If you or someone in your home needs additional support due to age, disability or health concerns, visit our personalised support page.

Meter reading impacts

Severe weather does not just impact roads and infrastructure, it can also make it unsafe for our meter readers to access properties.

When conditions are dangerous due to flooding, fallen trees or slippery surfaces, our meter readers may need to delay or adjust their usual routes. This helps keep our team safe while ensuring we continue to provide accurate and reliable service.

If we’re unable to read your meter as scheduled, we may:

  • Use an estimate based on your previous usage
  • Ask you to submit a meter reading online or by email

How you can help

  • Use less water during heavy rain

    When it’s raining a lot, our wastewater system can get overloaded. You can help by using less water at home.

    • Keep showers short
    • Avoid using the washing machine or dishwasher
    • Hold off on filling the bath

  • Keep stormwater out of the sewer

    Make sure downpipes, drains and gutters are not illegally connected to the wastewater system. Learn about stormwater connections on your property.

  • Check your overflow relief gully

    An Overflow Relief Gully (ORG) is a small drain located outside your home. If there is a sewer blockage, it redirects sewage safely away from inside your home and out into the garden.

    Make sure your ORG has a clear drainage path and is not blocked or covered by anything.

Staying safe during a wet weather event

  • Avoid stormwater channels

    Never play in or enter large concrete stormwater drains. These can become dangerous quickly during heavy rain, with fast-moving water that may look calmer than it really is.

  • Steer clear of contaminated water

    Don’t enter areas with overflow or floodwater – it may contain harmful bacteria and pose serious health risks.

  • Stay out of the water

    Avoid swimming at beaches, creeks, rivers and the harbour for at least two days after heavy rain. Water quality may be affected. For up-to-date information, visit Beachwatch.

  • Weather alerts and safety tips

    For weather alerts and safety tips, visit the Bureau of Meteorology or NSW SES.