Overview

• Hundreds of people have been rescued amid severe flooding in New South Wales, Australia, with 152 rescues reported, including 72 in Sydney.
• Intense storms and nearly a month's worth of rain in 24 hours have led to hazardous conditions, prompting officials to issue 15 emergency evacuation orders across the state.
• Warragamba Dam, supplying 80% of Sydney's water, spilled over two days earlier than expected due to the heavy rainfall.
• Authorities have warned residents in affected areas to avoid non-essential travel and stay indoors, as flood levels in some rivers, particularly in western Sydney, continue to rise.
• The State Emergency Service fielded over 4,000 calls for help in a 24-hour period, highlighting the extensive impact of the flooding.