New South Wales floods: Towns isolated, more rain expected
New South Wales, Australia, is grappling with floods that have resulted in two fatalities. The flooding has isolated entire towns, affecting approximately 50,000 residents. Meteorologists are forecasting additional rainfall.
What do you need to know?
- Where and when did the floods occur? The floods have impacted New South Wales, the most populous state in Australia.
- What are the effects of the floods? At least two people have perished, and about 50,000 residents are cut off from the outside world. In some regions, more than half of the annual rainfall fell in just three days.
- What actions have been taken? Local authorities are carrying out rescue operations using helicopters, boats, and drones. So far, 22 people have been evacuated by helicopter.
"Catastrophic natural disaster"
Police discovered the bodies of two victims in the Mid North Coast area, approximately 400 kilometres northeast of Sydney. Three individuals are missing.
Local authorities are engaged in extensive search and rescue operations using helicopters, boats, and drones. Many residents saved themselves from rising waters by climbing onto their roofs.
State Premier Chris Minns described the situation as a "catastrophic natural disaster." On Thursday, over 100 schools were closed, and thousands of households were left without power.
Half of the annual rainfall in three days
The government meteorological office reported that in some areas, more than half of the annual rainfall fell in just three days. Minns stated that they are preparing for more bad news in the next 24 hours, acknowledging the potential for further developments.
The Manning River in Taree reached a level not seen in 100 years. Rescue teams are finding it challenging to reach those affected, but 22 individuals have been successfully evacuated by helicopter.
Meteorologists anticipate further rainfall of up to 20 centimetres by Friday, followed by an improvement in weather conditions. However, Emergency Management Minister Kristy McBain cautioned that "the worst is yet to come."
What are the causes of the intense rainfall?
According to the Australian National University, 2024 recorded the highest average sea surface temperature ever observed across the country, as reported by AFP. Warmer waters lead to more moisture entering the atmosphere, resulting in more intense rainfall.
Global warming, primarily caused by the burning of oil, coal, and gas, increases the severity and frequency of natural disasters.
