A desperate search is underway for a woman feared swept away in floodwaters at Rothbury, north of Cessnock, following wild weather across the Hunter region last night.
Emergency services were called to Black Creek on Old North Road about 7:50pm Saturday, after reports a Mini Countryman became stuck while attempting to drive through rising floodwaters.
Two women exited the vehicle, but tragically, the passenger – believed to be in her 20s – was swept away by fast-moving water. The 27-year-old driver escaped unharmed.
Adding to the chaos, NSW SES crews discovered a 40-year-old man clinging to a tree nearby. He too had become trapped in floodwaters and was swept away while rescuers tried to reach him. Fortunately, SES crews were able to pull him to safety further downstream. He was treated by NSW Ambulance and taken to hospital for assessment.
The search for the missing woman was suspended overnight and is set to resume this morning, with crews from NSW Police, SES, Rural Fire Service, and VRA Rescue NSW involved.
Old North Road remains closed. Drivers are urged to check LiveTraffic.com for updates and avoid flood-affected areas.
⚠️ Reminder: Never drive through floodwaters. For emergency help, contact the NSW SES on 132 500 or dial Triple Zero (000) in life-threatening situations.