The NSW Mid North Coast is facing severe flooding, impacting almost 50,000 residents, with Taree at the centre of this crisis. Emergency services have reported multiple rescues, with numerous residents needing assistance as floodwaters rise and homes become inundated. Over 100 flood warnings were issued, including over 20 urgent evacuation alerts.
NSW State Emergency Service (SES) Commissioner Mike Wassing has made urgent appeals for residents to evacuate if they are in danger, highlighting the perilous conditions rescuers face, especially at night. Keith, a local resident, described the devastation, stating that floodwaters breached his home, creating a situation he had never witnessed in over two decades.
This catastrophic flooding is classified as a one-in-500-year event, emphasising its unprecedented nature. Since midnight, volunteers have executed nearly 300 rescues, with 19 high-priority operations ongoing in the most affected areas. Emergency services are prioritising rescues and are focused on reaching those in urgent need.
Several evacuation centres have been established across the region to assist displaced residents. While some businesses, like Woolworths, remain operational in certain areas, others have closed due to safety concerns associated with the flooding.
Both state and federal governments have initiated disaster assistance across 16 local government areas, providing funding for emergency accommodation, essential supplies, and support for low-income residents, councils, and businesses affected by the floods. Grants will aid in replacing damaged property and restoring public infrastructure.
As further rain is anticipated, flash flooding risks remain high, and additional evacuation orders have been issued for towns such as Kempsey and Macksville due to expected river surges. Port Macquarie Airport is currently closed as a precautionary measure.
Residents are urged to keep updated via the NSW SES website for real-time warnings and critical advice as the situation develops.