New South Wales bracing for relentless floods; two dead
New South Wales in Australia is struggling with floods. Two people have died. The water has cut off entire towns, isolating about 50,000 residents. Meteorologists predict further rainfall.
What do you need to know?
- Where and when did the floods occur? The floods have hit New South Wales, the most populous state in Australia.
- What are the effects of the floods? At least two people have died, and about 50,000 residents have been cut off from the world. In some areas, more than half of the annual rainfall fell in just three days.
- What actions have been taken? Local authorities are conducting rescue operations using helicopters, boats, and drones. Twenty-two people have been evacuated by helicopter.
"Catastrophic natural disaster"
Police found the bodies of two victims in the Mid North Coast region, about 400 kilometres northeast of Sydney. Three people are missing.
Local authorities are conducting extensive search and rescue operations using helicopters, boats, and drones. Many residents saved themselves from rising waters by climbing onto the roofs of houses.
State Premier Chris Minns called the situation 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 reached a level in Taree highest in 100 years. Rescue teams are having difficulty reaching those affected, yet 22 people were successfully evacuated by helicopter.
Meteorologists predict further rainfall up to 200 millimetres by Friday, and then an improvement in the weather. Nonetheless, Emergency Management Minister Kristy McBain warned 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 noted by AFP. Warmer waters cause more moisture to enter the atmosphere, leading to more intense rainfall.
Global warming, primarily driven by the use of oil, coal, and gas, increases the severity and frequency of natural disasters.
