Is There Hope for the Woman Swept Away in Floodwaters?
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Synopsis
An emergency search is ongoing for a woman swept away by intense floodwaters in New South Wales. The incident occurred near Rothbury as heavy rains and severe weather conditions impact the region. Rescue teams are working tirelessly amidst challenging conditions to locate her, while 27,500 homes remain without power due to the storm's aftermath.
Key Takeaways
- Emergency search operations are ongoing for a woman swept away by floodwaters.
- Heavy rain and severe weather have impacted New South Wales significantly.
- More than 27,500 homes are experiencing power outages.
- The NSW SES has received over 1,400 calls for assistance.
- Local authorities have issued multiple storm warnings.
Sydney, Aug 3 (NationPress) An urgent search operation is currently in progress for a woman who was carried away by floodwaters north of Sydney.
According to police in New South Wales (NSW), the woman, who is believed to be in her 20s, was one of two individuals in a vehicle that got stranded while trying to navigate through floodwaters near Rothbury, located 130 km north of Sydney, at approximately 7:50 p.m. local time on Saturday.
While both occupants attempted to exit the car, the female passenger was swept away. The driver, a 27-year-old woman, fortunately, sustained no injuries.
The emergency search commenced but was paused overnight before resuming early Sunday morning.
During the initial search on Saturday evening, crews from the NSW State Emergency Service (SES) successfully located a 40-year-old man who was stuck in a nearby tree after also being caught in the floodwaters, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
The man was dislodged from the tree but was ultimately rescued and taken to the hospital for evaluation.
The NSW SES responded to over 1,400 calls for help due to the heavy rain, wind, and snow impacting the Hunter, Northern Tablelands, and Mid North Coast regions north of Sydney on Saturday.
A severe weather warning was issued at 10:30 a.m. on Sunday by the Bureau of Meteorology, indicating that damaging winds would likely subside by early afternoon.
As reported by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), more than 27,500 homes in New South Wales experienced power outages due to damage caused by heavy rain, strong winds, and snowfall.
Local power provider Essential Energy informed affected customers to brace for continued outages overnight, as its crews were working diligently to restore power “where it is safe to do so,” although severe weather would lead to delays.
The NSW SES stated on its website that moderate to heavy rainfall was expected to continue in the Coffs Coast, Mid North Coast, Upper Hunter, and New England regions on Saturday afternoon, issuing 28 storm warnings and predicting minor to moderate flooding.
Nicole Hogan, assistant commissioner of the NSW SES, emphasized that persistent heavy rainfall could render roads flooded and impassable.
ABC also reported unprecedented snowfall depths in the Northern Tablelands, with up to 200 vehicles reportedly stuck in heavy snow.
Point of View
I believe that such incidents highlight the critical importance of emergency preparedness and community support during severe weather events. Our thoughts are with those affected, and we will continue to provide updates on the situation as it unfolds.
NationPress
05/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the woman to be swept away?
The woman was swept away while attempting to exit a vehicle that became stranded in floodwaters.
How many homes are affected by power outages?
More than 27,500 homes in New South Wales are currently without power due to the severe weather.
What are the current weather warnings?
The Bureau of Meteorology has issued warnings for damaging winds, heavy rainfall, and potential flooding in several regions.
Who is conducting the search and rescue operation?
The New South Wales State Emergency Service (SES) is leading the search and rescue efforts.
How can residents stay safe during severe weather?
Residents are advised to stay indoors, avoid flooded areas, and follow updates from local authorities.
