Death toll from Australia floods rises to 12

ANKARA

The death toll from heavy rains and floods in Australia rose to 12 after four people died in New South Wales, officials said on Wednesday.

New South Wales reported four deaths over last three days, with the latest body found in the Lismore area on Wednesday during the ongoing flood operation, according to the state police.

"The body of a man believed to be aged in his 70s was located inside a flooded unit; he is yet to be formally identified," the police said in a statement.

The heavy floods in New South Wales and Queensland states damaged thousands of properties since last week as waters flooded several areas across the cities. So far eight people died in Queensland and four in New South Wales.

On Wednesday, Australia’s Bureau of Meteorology issued a major flood warning in the Hawkesbury and Nepean rivers with a deepening east coast low bringing heavy rain, high winds and large seas.

"River level rises are already occurring along the Hawkesbury and Nepean rivers with major flooding likely. Based on forecast rainfall, major flooding is expected for the Hawkesbury and Nepean rivers from overnight Wednesday into Thursday impacting communities including Penrith, North Richmond and Windsor," Australia’s weather agency said in a statement.

It also warned that the heavy rain could cause very intense and dangerous life-threatening flash flood in the New South Wales coast.

The authorities already issued an evacuation order and asked the people to shift evacuation centers which were already established by the government to different areas.

The heavy rains and floods have also affected the power system in many areas and forced the authorities to close schools in affected areas of New South Wales, according to the state emergency service.

Meanwhile, the Queensland police said that they arrested four people for stealing and looting in areas affected by floods.

"Operation Uniform Nash is conducting around the clock patrols to disrupt and prevent opportunistic thieves from targeting homes and businesses already victim to flooding," said the police.

"Those stealing will be charged and are liable to a maximum of 10 years imprisonment," the police warned.