Eastern Australia Floods: Thousands Evacuated and Warned to Stay Indoors

Strategic Insights -

Widespread flooding has ravaged eastern Australia's coastline, with thousands of people ordered to stay indoors and emergency services scrambling to rescue residents stranded on rooftops. A coastal trough has brought heavy rain to multiple towns, with over 150 rescues undertaken on Wednesday alone, including in Coffs Harbour and Taree. The Manning River in Taree broke its 1929 record, with record flooding reported in several areas.

Key Takeaways:

  • Over 150 rescues were conducted on Wednesday, including in Coffs Harbour and Taree, where the Manning River broke the 1929 record.
  • More than 80 warnings were in place late on Wednesday morning after falls of up to 280mm in some areas.
  • The Defence Force assisted in over 1600 SES volunteers, helping with rescues in Taree, Wingham, and Glenthorne.
  • Many residents reported water rising into their homes, with some needing to seek refuge on their roofs.
  • A stay-indoors message was issued for elevated inland parts of the mid-north coast, including Bowraville and the outskirts of Coffs Harbour.
  • Six-hourly rainfall totals between 100mm and 140mm were possible through the day, with another 200mm to 300mm predicted to fall in the next two days.
  • The Myall River in the Hunter region is among the areas on flood watch, with local residents warned to monitor forecasts and rainfall.
  • Residents in Bulahdelah have reported damage to homes and businesses due to the rising river.

Statistics:

  • Over 150 rescues were undertaken on Wednesday alone.
  • More than 80 warnings were in place late on Wednesday morning.
  • Up to 280mm of rain fell in some areas.
  • The Manning River in Taree broke its 1929 flood record.
  • The Defence Force assisted in over 1600 SES volunteers.
  • Another 200mm to 300mm of rain is predicted to fall in the next two days.
  • Six-hourly rainfall totals between 100mm and 140mm are possible.
  • The Myall River is among the areas on flood watch.

Sources:

  • Byline: Luke Costin, Jack Gramenz and Sebastian Tan
  • Australian Associated Press