Torrential downpours have unleashed chaos across New South Wales, transforming streets into raging rivers and forcing hundreds to flee their homes. The Hunter Valley and Cessnock areas have become the epicentre of what emergency services are calling a 'once-in-a-decade' flood event.
Emergency Services Stretched to Limit
Rescue teams worked through the night as rapidly rising waters caught many residents off guard. The State Emergency Service has responded to over 500 calls for help since the crisis began, with floodwaters cutting off entire communities.
Critical Infrastructure Under Threat
Major roads have been transformed into waterways, with the New England Highway completely submerged in sections. Local hospitals have activated emergency protocols as power outages threaten critical medical equipment.
Residents Share Harrowing Ordeals
'The water rose so fast we barely had time to grab essentials,' recounted Cessnock resident Margaret Teale, who was rescued by boat with her two grandchildren. 'It's like nothing we've experienced before.'
Weather Bureau Issues Grave Warning
The Bureau of Meteorology has warned that the worst may be yet to come, with more heavy rainfall predicted for the already saturated region. 'We're seeing rainfall intensities that exceed all our models,' senior meteorologist David Wilkie stated.
Authorities have established evacuation centres in unaffected areas, but with continuing rainfall, concerns are growing about their capacity to handle the influx of displaced residents.
