NSW Faces Catastrophic Flooding: Nearly 50,000 Isolated, More Rain Ahead

Catastrophic flooding across New South Wales has left nearly 50,000 people stranded and thousands of homes cut off, as the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) warns that even more rain is on the way in what has become one of the most significant natural disasters to hit the state in decades.

The NSW State Emergency Service (SES) confirmed on Wednesday that over 48,800 people and 23,200 dwellings had been isolated due to record floodwaters inundating the mid-north coast, particularly along the Manning River. The river has surged to levels never seen before, surpassing the historic 1929 flood record of 5.9 metres to reach a staggering 6.37 metres in Taree.

“This is a one-in-500-year event,” said Andrew Gissing, CEO of Natural Hazards Research Australia. “The rainfall totals we’re seeing are unprecedented.”

The region has received more than 400mm of rain in just 48 hours—five times Taree’s average monthly rainfall and one-third of its yearly total. The BoM has warned that up to 200mm more could fall within the next two days, with further heavy rainfall expected in Coffs Harbour, Kempsey, Wingham, and Port Macquarie.

Communities in Crisis

Hundreds of rescues have been carried out since midnight Tuesday, with 289 people saved—most in Taree, Wingham, and Glenthorne. Nine helicopters are in operation, with the SES conducting door-to-door checks and airlifting residents to safety.

“There are some streets where floodwaters have cut off every home,” said SES Assistant Commissioner Dean Storey. “Our teams are working around the clock.”

Among those rescued was the Halloran family in Glenthorne, who had waited since 1am for evacuation from the top floor of their home. “Our two-year-old son and two dogs were with us,” said Jordan Halloran. “The water was rising fast. It was terrifying.”

They were airlifted just before noon, with video footage shared on social media showing a NSW police chopper crew executing the rescue.

Emergency Warnings Escalate

At least 109 flood warnings were active by Wednesday, 19 of them at emergency level. Evacuation orders were issued for Kempsey CBD, Gladstone, and Smithtown. In Taree, floodwaters inundated large areas of the town, and residents in low-lying areas have been urged to evacuate or prepare for extended isolation.

“The rain system is slow-moving and still delivering intense rainfall,” said SES Commissioner Mike Wassing. “We’re currently focused on the hardest-hit areas, including south Taree, Glenthorne, and parts of the northern coast.”

Chief Superintendent Andrew Cribb of the SES northern zone urged communities in the Hastings, Macleay, and Nambucca catchments to stay alert. “Move to higher ground if instructed. Prepare with food, water, and medicine in case you are cut off,” he said.

Personal Stories and Widespread Damage

Residents shared harrowing tales of escape and loss. Eleanor Spence in Wingham described how she had to help a friend evacuate, walking beside the railway line to avoid rising waters. “There are dozens of houses under water again—just like in 2021,” she said.

In Ghini Ghini, 24 people were rescued from a flooded stretch of the Pacific Highway overnight. In Bulahdelah, cleaner Ray watched his houseboat disappear as the Myall River burst its banks.

“It’s the icing on the cake,” he said. “The weather’s been relentless.”

More Rain Ahead, Climate Change Implicated

BoM meteorologist Dean Narramore said that intense rainfall between 50mm and 200mm is still expected in the coming days, with flash flooding and major river flooding likely to continue. “We still have two days of rainfall to get through,” he warned.

While it’s too early to determine the exact role of climate change, experts say global warming is intensifying rain events. “A warmer atmosphere holds more water, increasing the risk of extreme rainfall,” said Gissing.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese extended support on Wednesday evening, writing on X: “Our hearts are with all those impacted by the devastating floods across NSW. Emergency services are working tirelessly to assist those in need.”

As rivers continue to rise and rescue operations intensify, the people of NSW brace for more days of uncertainty, hardship, and hope for relief. Authorities continue to urge vigilance, preparation, and compliance with emergency instructions.