Are Nearly 50,000 People Isolated by Rising Floodwaters in Eastern Australia?
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Synopsis
The recent floods in New South Wales have isolated nearly 50,000 people, prompting extensive rescue operations and evacuation efforts. As record-breaking rainfall continues, communities brace for further impacts, with emergency services working tirelessly to ensure safety and provide assistance.
Key Takeaways
- Approximately 50,000 people isolated due to flooding.
- SES issued 109 flood warnings and conducted over 400 rescues.
- Record flooding levels surpassed historical marks.
- Government assistance activated for 16 local areas.
- Further rainfall expected, complicating recovery efforts.
Sydney, May 21 (NationPress) Nearly 50,000 individuals have been cut off from access due to rising floodwaters in New South Wales (NSW), Australia.
The NSW State Emergency Service (SES) reported on Wednesday afternoon that more than 48,800 residents and 23,200 homes have been affected by flooding in the Mid North Coast region, situated over 200 km northeast of Sydney.
For four consecutive days, the Mid North Coast and nearby areas have faced heavy rainfall, leading to extensive and record-breaking flooding.
The SES has issued 109 flood warnings, mandated evacuations throughout the impacted zones, and opened evacuation centers. In a recent update shortly after 5 p.m. local time on Wednesday, the SES revealed that emergency crews have performed over 400 flood rescue operations, utilizing helicopters and boats to assist those who are trapped.
The Australian Defence Force (ADF) has been called in to support air evacuations, as reported by Xinhua news agency. SES Chief Superintendent Dallas Burnes indicated on ABC radio that rescue operations would persist into the night, but emphasized that such efforts are extremely hazardous.
On Wednesday morning, the Manning River in the Mid North Coast surpassed its record flood level from 1929.
According to Natural Hazards Research Australia, the unprecedented flooding along the river has an estimated occurrence frequency of once every 500 years.
The federal and state governments have activated disaster assistance for residents in 16 local government areas, enabling them to access funding for emergency accommodation and essential supplies.
The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a severe weather warning, stating that areas in the Mid North Coast and adjacent Northern Tablelands could receive up to 300 millimeters of rain within the next 24 hours.
ABC meteorologist Tom Saunders warned that the most severe flooding could still be ahead for many regions.
The regional airport in Port Macquarie, located over 300 km northeast of Sydney, has been closed indefinitely, and more than 200 schools in affected areas are shut down.
Point of View
The ongoing flooding in New South Wales raises critical concerns about emergency preparedness and response. This disaster underscores the need for enhanced infrastructure and proactive measures to protect vulnerable communities from natural calamities.
NationPress
01/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is causing the flooding in New South Wales?
The flooding is primarily due to four consecutive days of heavy rainfall across the Mid North Coast and surrounding regions.
How many people have been affected by the floods?
Approximately 50,000 individuals have been isolated due to rising floodwaters.
What measures are being taken to assist affected residents?
The government has activated disaster assistance, and emergency services are conducting rescue operations.
Are evacuations being ordered?
Yes, the SES has mandated evacuations in the affected areas and opened evacuation centers.
What are the warnings from the Bureau of Meteorology?
The Bureau has warned that some areas could receive up to 300 millimeters of rain in the next 24 hours.
