Heavy Rain Causes Widespread Flash Flooding, Evacuations Across Eastern NSW

Eastern New South Wales is experiencing relentless heavy rain and flash flooding due to a slow-moving low pressure trough near the coast, enhanced by unusually warm Tasman Sea waters. Significant rainfall totals have been recorded, such as 317 mm at Carey’s Peak and 283 mm at Taree Airport within 48 hours, causing major flooding in rivers and widespread road, railway, and school closures across the Hunter and Mid North Coast regions. Emergency services have responded to thousands of calls, performing multiple flood rescues and evacuations, urging residents to avoid floodwaters and heed warnings. Damaging winds with gusts up to 100 km/h have compounded the situation, toppling trees and causing further disruptions. Sydney has also been affected, receiving substantial rainfall and strong winds, with forecasts predicting over 100 mm of rain throughout the week, prompting severe weather warnings and ongoing flood risk. Authorities continue monitoring the situation, advising caution and preparation as the extreme weather event persists for several more days.