Over 150 Rescued Amid Torrential Floods in Eastern Australia

Over 150 Rescued Amid Torrential Floods in Eastern Australia

Sydney—More than 150 people have been rescued from rising floodwaters in New South Wales, Australia, after torrential rains wreaked havoc across the eastern state. Authorities have issued emergency evacuation orders, urging residents in low-lying areas to move to higher ground as rivers continue to swell.

The New South Wales State Emergency Service (SES) reported that 152 rescues were conducted statewide, with 72 in Sydney alone, Australia’s largest city. Several suburbs have been inundated, leading to dangerous conditions and significant disruption to daily life.

“Flood levels in some of the rivers, particularly in western Sydney, are continuing to rise,” said New South Wales Premier Chris Minns during a televised press conference. “We urge everyone to heed the warnings and evacuate if instructed. Your safety is our top priority.”

The SES has been inundated with calls for assistance, receiving 4,128 requests in the 24 hours leading up to 5:00 a.m. local time. Fifteen emergency evacuation orders remain in effect across the state as officials monitor the situation closely.

Heavy rains pummeled Australia’s southeast on Friday, dumping nearly a month’s worth of rainfall on Sydney within 24 hours. The Bureau of Meteorology recorded 111 millimeters of rain in the city, just shy of the monthly average of 121.5 millimeters for April.

Authorities have advised residents to avoid non-essential travel and stay indoors. The severe weather has raised concerns about further flooding and potential landslides in already saturated areas.

Emergency services are working around the clock to assist affected communities. “Our teams are out there, risking their own safety to help others,” said an SES spokesperson. “We ask the public to remain vigilant, stay informed, and follow all directives from emergency personnel.”

The unprecedented rainfall and flooding serve as a stark reminder of the challenges posed by extreme weather events. Communities are coming together to support one another as recovery efforts begin in the aftermath of the deluge.

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