More than 52mm of rain fell on Maitland before 9am yesterday in a deluge that brought back worrying memories for property owners, particularly in low-lying areas neighbouring the Hunter River.

It did not ease during the day, and was expected to continue last night.

Totals for the past 24-hour period could eclipse this year’s wettest day on January 18, when 80.2mm fell.

More rain is forecast for today as the region commemorates the first anniversary of the June long weekend storm and flood that wreaked a damage bill in excess of $2 billion.

Pump and livestock warnings were issued for the Paterson and Williams rivers yesterday, as well as parts of the Hunter River including below Singleton.

That was because of a rise in Black Creek around Branxton and Greta that could affect levels in the Hunter River.

Acting Hunter Region SES contoller Ken Speer said there was no immediate threat yesterday afternoon, but continued rain and gale force winds could change the situation quickly.

“The rivers are still below minor flood levels, but the warnings have been issued to property owners in case levels rise overnight,” he said.

A severe weather warning was issued for the Hunter last night.

Williamtown meteorologist John James said the rain was the result of a low pressure system that had travelled down the coast and was hovering off Nelson Bay.

Winds reaching 90kph were predicted for coastal areas in addition to heavy rain last night.

“There’ll be rain (today) easing to into Friday and then becoming more isolated on Saturday,” Mr James said.

“But it looks like there’ll be some rain across the long weekend.”