Is Australia Facing a Flooding Crisis That Is Isolating Thousands?
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Synopsis
Amid record-breaking flooding in New South Wales, Australia, thousands of residents are isolated. With heavy rainfall persisting, local authorities are mobilizing resources for rescue operations, while evacuation orders are issued in multiple towns. The situation is critical as power outages and school closures add to the growing crisis.
Key Takeaways
- Thousands of residents are isolated due to severe flooding in NSW.
- Emergency services have responded to hundreds of requests for help.
- Heavy rain is expected to continue, worsening the situation.
- Evacuation orders are in effect for multiple towns.
- Power outages are affecting thousands of homes and businesses.
Sydney, May 21 (NationPress) Thousands of residents are currently cut off due to unprecedented flooding in the eastern Australian state of New South Wales (NSW).
Heavy rainfall persisted for a fourth consecutive day on Wednesday, particularly in areas over 100 km north of Sydney, worsening the situation with extensive flash flooding.
The NSW State Emergency Service (SES) reported that it had responded to 887 calls for help, which included 118 flood rescues, in the 24 hours leading up to Wednesday morning.
Approximately 16,000 individuals or 7,400 properties in the most affected regions are expected to remain isolated for a minimum of one day, according to SES spokesperson Andrew Edmunds.
The SES is aware of 52 individuals stranded on tables, verandahs, and rooftops, he noted.
Local power supply company Essential Energy has reported that around 3,700 homes and businesses, predominantly in Taree, Wingham, Tinonee, Burrell Creek, and Hillville, are currently without electricity. "Crews will be deployed today to assess damage and carry out repairs where it is safe to do so," the company stated on Wednesday.
Nearly 100 schools in the impacted areas were closed on Wednesday.
NSW Emergency Services Minister Jihad Dib informed Radio National Breakfast that he has requested federal assistance and mentioned that the Australian Defence Force is expected to arrive shortly to aid in rescue operations.
SES Assistant Commissioner Colin Malone stated that authorities are mobilizing "every available asset" to facilitate rescues, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
"We have received numerous calls for help and are evaluating the best ways to reach those locations," he explained.
"We advise individuals needing assistance to move to higher ground, as access by boat, road, or air is currently impossible due to the adverse weather conditions."
A severe weather alert from the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) indicated that some areas within the Hunter, Mid North Coast, Northern Tablelands, and Northern Rivers regions recorded over 200 mm of rainfall within a 20-hour span.
Heavy rain is anticipated to persist through Wednesday and into Thursday across significant parts of the state, raising concerns over potentially life-threatening flooding.
Senior BOM forecaster Dean Narramore told ABC television that certain regions have experienced up to 500 mm of rainfall in the last 48 hours.
On Wednesday morning, the water level in the Manning River at Taree, located 250 km northeast of Sydney, surpassed the record high previously set in 1929.
Evacuation orders have been issued for residents in eight towns, while residents of three additional towns, including Taree, have been advised that evacuation is no longer possible.
Malone noted that most rescues for individuals trapped in homes were taking place in areas that had been advised to evacuate as early as Tuesday.
Point of View
It's crucial to convey that the ongoing flooding crisis in New South Wales is a significant natural disaster. The resilience of local communities is being tested as emergency services work tirelessly to navigate these challenging circumstances. Our commitment is to report on the impacts and responses with accuracy and empathy, ensuring that the voices of affected individuals are heard.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What areas are most affected by the flooding in NSW?
The areas most affected include Taree, Wingham, Tinonee, Burrell Creek, Hillville, and surrounding regions, where thousands are isolated due to severe flooding.
How can residents stay safe during this flooding crisis?
Residents are advised to move to higher ground and avoid travel unless absolutely necessary. Emergency services are currently assessing situations and providing assistance where possible.
Are there any evacuation orders in place?
Yes, evacuation orders have been issued for eight towns, with some areas advising residents that it is too late to evacuate.
What is the forecast for the coming days?
Heavy rainfall is expected to continue through Wednesday and into Thursday, which may lead to further flooding and hazardous conditions.
How can I get updates on the flooding situation?
You can stay updated through local news outlets, the Bureau of Meteorology, and official social media channels of the NSW State Emergency Service.
