22/05/2025
*Severe Weather Crisis: Torrential Rains Trigger Widespread Flooding in NSW"Australia*
As of May 22, 2025, the Mid North Coast and Hunter regions of NSW are experiencing major flooding. The Bureau of Meteorology has issued severe weather warnings for heavy rainfall, with some areas receiving over 300 mm of rain. The towns of Taree, Kempsey, Port Macquarie, Coffs Harbour, and Bellingen are among the hardest hit, with rivers like the Manning, Paterson, Hastings, and Macleay overflowing their banks.
* Impact and Rescue Efforts*
Fatalities and Missing Persons: Three individuals have been confirmed dead, including 63-year-old David Knowles from Moto, who tragically lost his life after assisting others. One person remains missing.
Rescues: Over 500 people have been rescued, with 22 individuals airlifted by helicopter, including 18 from flooded homes and roads, and four from a bridge.
Evacuations and Isolation: Approximately 50,000 residents have been advised to prepare for evacuation or face potential isolation due to rising floodwaters.
Infrastructure Damage: More than 100 schools have closed, and thousands of homes are without power. Road closures and landslides have further complicated evacuation and rescue operations.
* Affected Areas*
The following regions are experiencing significant flooding:
Mid North Coast: Taree, Kempsey, Port Macquarie, Coffs Harbour, Bellingen
Hunter Region: Newcastle, Maitland
Northern Tablelands: Armidale, Glen Innes
ABC
Illawarra and South Coast: Wollongong, Nowra
Residents in these areas are urged to stay informed through local news outlets and official channels.
📞 Emergency Contacts
Emergency Services: Dial 000 for life-threatening emergencies.
Reuters
State Emergency Service (SES): Call 132 500 for flood and storm assistance.
Bureau of Meteorology Warnings: Visit bom.gov.au/nsw/warnings for the latest weather updates and
https://youtu.be/Vic56pISpM4
Heavy rainfall in Australia has triggered flash floods, prompting emergency evacuations of over 280 people so. Rural towns in New South Wales, especially alo...