Hunter Region Lashed by Flash Flooding NSW
Torrential rainfall has triggered widespread flash flooding in NSW, with the Hunter region and parts of the Mid-North Coast among the hardest hit. More than 200mm of rain was recorded in some areas overnight, resulting in the rapid rise of rivers and widespread inundation of roads, homes, and public infrastructure.
Emergency services issued over a dozen NSW flood warnings, and local authorities moved quickly to activate flood response protocols. Communities in and around Newcastle bore the brunt of the storm, with many waking to submerged streets and damaged properties.
Image 1: Flooded Suburban Street in Hunter Region. Source: ABC News – Live Flood Coverage
Road Closures and Transport Disruption Across Newcastle
Transport in and around Newcastle has been thrown into chaos as numerous key roads were forced to close due to Flash Flooding. Sections of the Pacific Highway, New England Highway, and several arterial routes in Maitland, Raymond Terrace, and Cessnock were deemed impassable.
The NSW State Emergency Service (SES) has urged motorists to avoid all non-essential travel. “This is not the day to be on the road,” warned an SES spokesperson. “We’ve already had multiple vehicle rescues, and conditions are only getting worse.”
Train services have also experienced delays and suspensions, particularly along the Hunter Line.
Image 2: Emergency signage warns motorists of impassable roads.(SOURCE: iStock)
School Closures NSW: Hundreds of Students Affected
More than 50 schools across NSW were closed as of Tuesday morning, with Education NSW publishing an updated list of shutdowns due to flooding or access concerns. A significant number of the affected schools are located in the Hunter Valley, along with parts of Taree and Forster.
Some schools have switched to remote learning, while others are completely offline due to water damage or power outages. Parents were advised to consult official channels before attempting school drop-offs.
“We’re working to ensure that no student’s education suffers due to this emergency,” said an Education NSW spokesperson.
Emergency Services in Overdrive Amid Soaring Calls
The NSW SES has responded to more than 600 calls for assistance in the past 24 hours. Volunteers and first responders are tackling a wide range of emergencies, from flooded basements and downed power lines to full-scale evacuations.
Temporary evacuation centres have been established in towns such as Singleton, Taree, and Port Macquarie, providing food, shelter, and support to displaced families. Local councils have partnered with community groups to distribute sandbags, offer emergency accommodation, and coordinate rescue logistics.
Image 3: SES Volunteers Assisting Residents. (Source: ABC News)
Newcastle Weather: More Rain Forecast
The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) has issued a severe weather warning, with additional heavy rainfall forecast for the next 48 hours. Meteorologists warn that the already saturated soil could lead to increased flash flooding, landslips, and creek overflows, particularly in hillside areas and coastal townships.
Residents have been urged to keep clear of storm drains, avoid swimming or wading through floodwaters, and secure loose outdoor items. The public is also reminded to rely on official channels for real-time updates.
Community Response and Government Reaction
Premier Jacinta Allan addressed the media this morning, acknowledging the damage and expressing gratitude to the emergency services. “We are monitoring the situation hour-by-hour,” she said. “Our priority is protecting lives and property.”
Disaster relief funding is expected to be made available to eligible households and small businesses affected by the Flash Flooding . Meanwhile, social media has become a vital tool for sharing local updates, images, and warnings using hashtags like #NSWFloods, #HunterWeather, and #StaySafeNSW.
Caution Urged as Rain Continues
As rising floodwaters impact communities across northern NSW, officials are urging residents to stay vigilant and make safety their top priority. Many roads remain closed, schools are on stand-by, and more rain is expected throughout the week.
Residents are advised to follow updates from the NSW SES, BoM, and Education NSW to stay informed. With emergency responders stretched thin, the call remains clear: if it’s flooded, forget it.