Australian floods leave hundreds trapped

FLOODING in eastern Australia has left hundreds of people trapped inside their rural homes and prompted rescues of at least ten people from their vehicles.

Heavy rain inundated several townships in northern New South Wales state, trapping motorists in their cars yesterday and leaving rural properties swamped.

According to the State Emergency Service, at least 400 people at properties southwest of Coffs Harbour and another 50 near Moree township have been cut off by the floodwaters.

Severe weather warnings remain in place for the state’s northern parts, with more flooding predicted on several rivers.