Body Believed Missing Woman Found After NSW Hunter Valley Floods

A 26-year-old woman believed to have been swept away in floodwaters in New South Wales' Hunter Valley has been found deceased after a multi-day search. The woman was a passenger in a Mini Countryman that became stuck in floodwaters near Cessnock, and she was swept away while attempting to exit the vehicle; the 27-year-old driver was rescued unharmed. Rescue efforts involved multiple agencies including police, the Rural Fire Service, Volunteer Rescue Association, and specialist units such as police divers. The search was briefly suspended due to poor weather and visibility but resumed until the body was located by VRA Rescue NSW. Heavy rains, floods, and severe weather have caused widespread disruption in northern NSW, including evacuations and over 1,400 emergency calls for assistance. Authorities continue to warn residents in flood-affected areas to avoid dangers such as damaged powerlines and floodwaters on roads, with ongoing severe weather impacting the region.