A catastrophic flood event, described as a one-in-500-year occurrence, has severely impacted New South Wales’ Mid North Coast, leaving nearly 50,000 residents isolated and inundating over 23,000 properties. The Manning River in Taree reached a record-breaking height of 6.4 metres, surpassing the previous peak recorded in 1929.
Emergency services, including the NSW State Emergency Service (SES), have conducted over 500 rescues in the past 24 hours, with more than 4,000 incidents reported. Tragically, a 63-year-old man was found deceased in a flood-affected home. Police are investigating the man’s death and a report will be prepared for the coroner.
The Bureau of Meteorology warns of an additional 300mm of rainfall in the coming days, with 126 flood warnings active statewide, including 31 at emergency levels . Towns such as Kempsey, Port Macquarie, and Glenthorne are under evacuation orders, and the Pacific Highway is closed in both directions at Coopernook.
NSW Premier Chris Minns expressed condolences to the affected communities and acknowledged the challenging times ahead. Authorities urge residents to avoid floodwaters and remain in safe, dry locations while rescue efforts continue using helicopters and high-clearance vehicles.
This event underscores the increasing frequency and severity of extreme weather events, highlighting the need for robust, long-term policy responses to climate resilience and emergency preparedness.
For emergency assistance contact the NSW SES on 132 500. In life-threatening situations, call Triple Zero (000).
