ROTHBURY, NSW – A massive search operation is underway for a woman in her 20s who was swept away by floodwaters in the Hunter Region of New South Wales, following days of wild and wet weather.
The incident occurred on Saturday evening when a small SUV, carrying the woman and a 27-year-old female driver, became stuck in floodwaters at Black Creek on Old North Rd in Rothbury.
Both occupants managed to escape the vehicle, but the woman was subsequently swept away.
The driver, however, remained uninjured.
During the rescue response, a 40-year-old man was also found clinging to a tree nearby after becoming trapped in the floodwaters.
Authorities managed to follow him downstream along Black Creek and eventually pulled him to safety.
The man was treated by paramedics and taken to hospital for assessment.
The search for the missing woman was suspended overnight but resumed on Sunday.
Meanwhile, Old North Rd remains closed due to flooding, and residents in affected areas are urged to avoid hazards such as damaged power lines and floodwaters across roads.
The SES has warned the public to never drive through floodwater, advising them to stop, turn around, and find an alternative route if they encounter a flooded road.
Unnecessary travel should be avoided, especially as black ice may cause hazardous road conditions.
Members of the public are advised to stay updated on the latest warnings and weather information.
If assistance is required, they can contact the NSW SES on `132 500`.
For life-threatening emergencies, always call triple-0.