New South Wales (NSW), Australia, is experiencing severe and widespread flooding, described by some as the worst the state has seen in many lifetimes.

The extreme weather event has resulted in the tragic loss of life, with three confirmed fatalities.

One person remains missing, and authorities are continuing search and rescue operations.

Heavy rainfall has inundated numerous communities, causing widespread property damage and displacement.

Thousands of residents have been forced to evacuate their homes, seeking shelter in emergency accommodation or with family and friends.

The State Emergency Service (SES) has conducted thousands of rescue operations, including swift water rescues, to aid stranded individuals.

Premier of NSW, Chris Minns, has declared a state of emergency, providing additional powers to authorities to manage the crisis.

The flooding is primarily affecting areas along rivers and coastal regions, with major rivers overflowing their banks and inundating surrounding areas.

Weather forecasts predict continued heavy rainfall in the coming days, raising concerns that the situation could worsen.

Emergency services are urging residents in affected areas to heed evacuation orders and stay informed about the latest weather updates.