FLOODS IN N.S. WALES.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LVIII, Issue 17843, 26 July 1921, Page 5

FLOODS IN N.S. WALES.

CYCLONE ON NORTH COAST.

SLEEPING TOWNS INUNDATED. RIVERS BURST BANKS. By Telegraph—Press Association—Copyright A. and N.Z. SYDNEY. July 25. Extensive floods in the northern districts followed a cyclonic storm on Saturday, which did severe damage to property. Sis inches of rain fell in a few bours. and the rivers rose with unexpected rapidity, breaking their banks and sweeping into the townships of Lismore, Murwillumbah, Kempsey, and Macksville late at night. The main streets are deeply flooded, and in many shops and residences the water is several feet deep. The people were caught asleep, and made their exit with difficulty in the darkness. Many places were completely surrounded with water, and the inmates were taken out by rescue boats. Two lives were lost at Murwillumbah. A baby fell from its mother's arms and was drowned, and a man was drowned by the overturning of a boat. Wide areas along the rivers are inundated, causing widespread damage. It is feared that other lives have been lost, but until the waters subside it is impossible to ascertain the Ml extent of the damage. The damage at Murwillumbah is estimated at £100.000. All communication has been cut off, preventing further information. The Clarence River burst its banks, rising 22ft. North and South Grafton are partially flooded, but the waters are generally receding.

FIVE PERSONS DROWNED.

IMMENSE LOSS OF STOCK.

FARMS 15 FEET UNDER WATER

Australian and N.Z. Cable Association. (Reed. 11.30 p.m.) SYDNEY, July 25.

In most of the flooded areas, the water receded quickly, though in some districts the worst is not yet known. Warnings issued by the police enabled many residents in low-lying grounds to escape. Numerous thrilling experiences are related. Some residents were compelled to spend the night on the roofs of their houses in pouring rain. A few houses were swept away bodily. A scarcity of boats delayed the rescue work.

As far as is known five persons were drowned.

The rainfall in. 36 hours registered nearly eight inches. The losses of stock are immense, some farms being 15ft. under water.