Sydney: At least five people have lost their lives in massive floods sweeping through eastern Australia this week, as around 50,000 people remain stranded while waters begin to recede.

According to Qatar News Agency, the extreme weather hit New South Wales, where torrential rains equivalent to six months’ worth of precipitation fell within just three days. Nearly 10,000 properties sustained damage, and rescue operations remain underway to assist those trapped by floodwaters.

Australia’s meteorological authority warned of record-breaking flood levels in some areas, prompting officials to declare a natural disaster emergency and allocate additional resources to affected regions.

In recent months, Australia has experienced a series of severe weather events, with large parts of the country enduring extreme climatic conditions.