Record Flooding Isolates 50,000 in Eastern Australia, Triggers Extensive Rescues

Heavy rains and record-breaking floods have severely impacted New South Wales (NSW), Australia, particularly the Mid North Coast region, isolating nearly 50,000 people and submerging thousands of homes. The flooding, caused by four consecutive days of intense rainfall, has surpassed historic levels, including the Manning River's 1929 flood record, with some areas receiving over five months' worth of rain in just two days. Emergency services, including the NSW State Emergency Service (SES) and the Australian Defence Force, are conducting hundreds of rescues, often using helicopters and boats to reach stranded residents on rooftops and upper floors. Authorities have issued numerous evacuation orders and warnings, prioritizing rescues in severely affected towns like Taree, Wingham, and Coffs Harbour, while also setting up evacuation centers. Power outages and school closures have compounded the crisis, and emergency response teams continue to face dangerous conditions as they operate. Climate experts note that such extreme weather events are becoming more frequent and intense due to climate change.