- विज्ञापन -
Sydney: In Australia, the east coast state of New South Wales (NSW) is facing a worsening flooding crisis, leaving thousands isolated. Continued heavy rainfall for the fourth straight day over regions more than 100 km north of Sydney has intensified flash flooding across the area.
The NSW State Emergency Service (SES) reported handling 887 assistance calls within 24 hours, including 118 flood rescues. According to SES spokesperson Andrew Edmunds, approximately 16,000 residents—roughly 7,400 homes—in the most affected regions may remain cut off for at least a day. The SES also received reports of 52 individuals trapped on tables, verandahs, and rooftops.
Power outages are widespread, with Essential Energy stating that about 3,700 homes and businesses, mainly in Taree, Wingham, Tinonee, Burrell Creek, Hillville, and nearby areas, are currently without electricity. Efforts are underway to assess damage and carry out repairs when safe. Nearly 100 schools in the impacted zones have also been closed.
NSW Emergency Services Minister Jihad Dib has appealed for federal support, and the Australian Defence Force is expected to arrive soon to aid rescue operations. SES Assistant Commissioner Colin Malone emphasized that all available resources are being deployed to assist those trapped, though access remains difficult due to the persistent bad weather. He advised those needing help to move to higher ground, as rescue teams cannot currently reach some locations by boat, road, or air.
The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) issued a severe weather alert, indicating that regions including Hunter, Mid North Coast, Northern Tablelands, and Northern Rivers experienced rainfall totals exceeding 200 mm over 20 hours, with some areas receiving up to 500 mm within 48 hours. They forecast continued heavy rain through Wednesday and Thursday, raising fears of “life-threatening” floods.
The Manning River at Taree surpassed its 1929 high water mark early Wednesday morning. Evacuation orders have been issued for eight towns, and residents of three more—including Taree—have been told that evacuation is no longer an option. Most rescue operations from trapped homes are concentrated in areas where evacuations had been advised on the previous day.
