A state of emergency is unfolding across New South Wales as a relentless, intense low-pressure system hammers the east coast, dumping unprecedented rainfall and triggering severe, life-threatening flooding.
Sydney is at the epicentre of the crisis, with the city’s west and southwest experiencing what officials are calling a one-in-100-year deluge. The Hawkesbury and Nepean rivers have surged past major flood levels, submerging roads, isolating communities, and forcing hundreds of residents to evacuate with little notice.
Critical Warnings and Evacuations
The NSW State Emergency Service (SES) has been inundated with calls for help, performing multiple flood rescues for those trapped by rapidly rising waters. "This is a very dynamic and dangerous situation," an SES spokesperson warned. "Our message is clear: do not drive through floodwaters. If you are told to evacuate, please do so immediately."
Mandatory evacuation orders are currently active for several low-lying suburbs, including:
- Parts of Windsor and Sackville
- Low-lying areas of Penrith and North Richmond
- Communities along the Colo River
Transport Chaos and Infrastructure Damage
The torrential downpour has paralysed Sydney's transport network. Numerous roads are closed due to being underwater or damaged, and train services on multiple lines have been cancelled or severely delayed. Emergency crews are working around the clock to clear debris and restore access, but warn that disruptions will continue for days.
Meteorologists confirmed that some areas received over 200mm of rain in just 24 hours, shattering August records. The system, drawing in moisture from the Tasman Sea, is moving slowly, meaning the heavy rain is set to continue throughout the day, exacerbating the already critical situation.
Looking Ahead: A Long Recovery
While the intense rainfall is expected to ease later tonight, the flood threat is far from over. River levels will continue to rise well after the rain stops, and the clean-up operation will be massive. Residents are being urged to stay informed via official SES channels and prepare for the possibility of further evacuation orders.
