How Many Properties Were Affected by Floods in Australia?
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Synopsis
Over 10,000 properties have been reported damaged by floodwaters in New South Wales, Australia. With emergency services working tirelessly, the situation remains critical, and residents are urged to stay vigilant. Discover the impacts of the floods and the ongoing rescue operations.
Key Takeaways
- More than 10,000 properties damaged in NSW.
- Over 50,000 residents isolated due to flooding.
- Emergency services conducted 736 rescue operations.
- Authorities warn against entering floodwaters.
- Tragic loss of five lives in the flooding crisis.
Sydney, May 24 (NationPress) The emergency service authority in New South Wales (NSW), Australia, reported on Saturday that initial estimates indicate over 10,000 properties have suffered damage due to floodwaters in the eastern regions of the state.
The Chief Superintendent of the State Emergency Service (SES), Paul McQueen, informed the media on Saturday morning that teams will be deployed extensively to initiate the damage assessment process.
"I want to emphasize that this situation remains perilous, with significant damage to infrastructure and properties expected," he stated.
"Regrettably, we cannot allow residents to return home until water levels decrease further, ensuring safe access to their residences and communities."
According to a statement from NSW Police on Friday evening, rescue officers discovered a body inside a charred vehicle at a location affected by the floods on the Mid North Coast.
This tragic event marks the fifth fatality in the extensive flooding crisis impacting the Mid North Coast and neighboring areas, following five consecutive days of heavy rainfall, as reported by Xinhua.
Earlier on May 23, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and NSW Premier Chris Minns surveyed regions north of Sydney that have been devastated by severe flooding due to the prolonged torrential rain.
As of Friday afternoon, over 50,000 individuals remain isolated because of the flooding, with emergency services actively conducting rescue operations via boat and helicopter.
To date, emergency services have carried out a total of 736 flood rescue operations.
The severe weather system responsible for the torrential rain shifted south on Friday and, according to the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM), is expected to exit NSW by midnight.
Even though conditions are beginning to improve, authorities caution that river levels may continue to rise.
Approximately 50,000 residents in the NSW Mid North Coast and Hunter regions are being urged to prepare for potential evacuations, as experts warn that entering floodwaters presents a serious risk to life.
"Four-wheel drives can create a false sense of security when attempting to navigate through floodwaters, but studies show that 75% of all floodwater-related fatalities over the last 15 years are linked to these vehicles," stated Andrew Gissing, CEO of Natural Hazards Research Australia.
He referenced research indicating that 84% of drivers ignore road closure signs and noted that young males under 29 account for a significant portion of flood-related deaths.
After the devastating floods of 2022 in northern NSW and southern Queensland, studies revealed that nearly two-thirds of floodwater fatalities occur within 20 km of individuals' homes, highlighting the dangers faced even in familiar environments.
Point of View
I emphasize the importance of staying informed and prepared during such crises. The impacts of flooding are profound, affecting thousands of lives. Our commitment is to deliver accurate and timely updates to ensure community safety and awareness.
NationPress
01/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
How many properties have been damaged in the floods?
Initial estimates indicate that over 10,000 properties have been affected by the floodwaters in New South Wales.
What is the current status of rescue operations?
Emergency services have conducted 736 flood rescue operations and continue to carry out operations by boat and helicopter.
Are residents allowed to return home?
Residents cannot return until water levels decrease significantly to ensure safe access to homes and communities.
What precautions should residents take during floods?
Residents are urged to avoid entering floodwaters and to adhere to road closure signs for their safety.
What are the dangers associated with floodwaters?
Entering floodwaters is one of the most significant threats to life, as many fatalities occur in familiar areas.
