NSW Floods Isolate Thousands, Destroy 1,000+ Buildings

Severe flooding in New South Wales, particularly along the Mid North Coast and areas like Taree, has caused widespread devastation, isolating thousands of residents and rendering hundreds of homes uninhabitable. Aerial images reveal the vast scale of the damage, with entire communities cut off and agricultural losses mounting, including significant impacts on the dairy industry. Recovery efforts are underway, with thousands of government staff and volunteers deployed to clear debris, repair roads, and conduct damage assessments, though officials warn the recovery will be a lengthy process. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese acknowledged the massive challenge ahead, highlighting the need for financial relief and support for affected communities. Emergency services emphasize the importance of rapid, clear information from aerial surveys to guide response and prioritize aid. The flooding is part of a broader pattern of extreme weather events that some experts attribute to climate change.