Residents in Hinton and surrounds are being invited to a community meeting on Thursday evening to discuss past flood events and how to prepare for more in the future.

It’s being held at the Hinton School of Arts from 6pm to 7:30pm.

Police, SES, Resilience NSW, and Port Stephens Council representatives will address the community, alongside a chance for local residents to have their say.

The Hunter’s currently on flood watch, with severe weather and heavy rain forecast through the weekend.

Port Stephens MP Kate Washington says the area could be cut off again, and residents need to be ready.

“It’s really important to get everyone together to listen to suggestions and ideas, because local knowledge and experience is key to getting better outcomes,” she said.

“Everything’s on the table tonight, from preparation, mitigation, and response.”

“It’s a broad conversation that needs to be had, but at the end of the day, what we need to ensure is that everyone in the community is prepared for what’s to come.”

Hinton was cut off by flood waters in July. Image credit: Port Stephens SES.