NSW Weather: Torrential Rain and Flooding Wreak Havoc as Sydney Records Wettest Day of the Year
New South Wales residents are reeling from widespread flooding and heavy rainfall, with Sydney experiencing its wettest day of the year to date.
The city’s Observatory Hill recorded 82mm of rain in just 24 hours, exceeding the entire monthly average for August.
Fatalities Reported as Weather Conditions Hamper Search Efforts
In the midst of the chaos, authorities have confirmed the discovery of two bodies in a river 20km north of Wisemans Ferry, following a car accident on Wednesday night.
The incident is a sobering reminder of the treacherous conditions facing emergency responders and the public.
Statewide Flood Warnings Issued as Rainfall Persists
The NSW State Emergency Service (SES) has issued over 30 warnings, including several “watch and act” alerts, for areas stretching from Sydney’s south to the Central Coast, north coast, New England region, and the state’s north-west.
Residents are urged to remain vigilant, with elevated river levels, saturated soils, and full dams exacerbating the risk of flash flooding.
road Closures and Incidents Mount as Floodwaters Rise
According to the NSW government’s Live Traffic website, hundreds of road incidents have been reported, resulting in widespread road closures and isolation for many communities.
The SES has responded to over 500 incidents in the past 24 hours, including five flood rescues, with a man rescued from floodwaters in Douglas Park, south-west of Sydney, earlier today.
Bureau of Meteorology Warns of Ongoing Rainfall and Flood Risk
The Bureau of Meteorology predicts continued moderate rainfall and isolated thunderstorms until Friday morning, with the mid-north coast potentially receiving up to 150mm of rainfall.
The organisation has issued a major flood warning for the Namoi River and moderate warnings for the Peel River and minor warnings for the Nepean and Barwon rivers.