Feb 27 • 02:07 UTC 🇦🇺 Australia ABC News AU

Towns cut off, cars swept away in extreme weather across the country

Extreme weather and heavy rain have impacted at least four states in Australia, causing flooding and disruption.

Australia is currently experiencing an unprecedented weather event, with four states—South Australia, Victoria, and south-west New South Wales—facing extreme weather conditions and heavy rainfall. This unusual weather has been attributed to a rare weather pattern located above the Simpson Desert, leading to forecasts for what might be the heaviest rainfall in more than a decade for these regions. Meteorologists have highlighted that large portions of the country, typically known for their dry climate, are now experiencing significant rain, causing disruptions and concerns among residents.

According to Angus Hines, a senior meteorologist at the Bureau of Meteorology, this week's heavy rainfall is a stark deviation from the norm. Areas that usually enjoy arid conditions are now receiving intense downpours, presenting challenges for local communities and infrastructure. The slow-moving tropical low-pressure system affecting southeastern Northern Territory has been a significant contributor to this weather anomaly, creating a ripple effect that is impacting multiple states, most notably in the interior regions.

The consequences of this extreme weather are already visible, with towns becoming cut off and cars swept away in the swelling waters. As emergency services work to provide assistance, the focus now turns to assessing damages and helping affected communities recover from this severe weather episode. The situation underscores the growing impact of climate variability in Australia and raises questions about preparedness for such extreme events in the future.

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