Search underway for woman swept away in Hunter Region floodwaters after wild weather batters NSW

A search is underway for a woman swept away by floodwaters after days of wild, wet and windy weather.

The woman, believed to be in her 20s, was a passenger in a small SUV that became stuck in floodwaters at Black Creek on Old North Rd in Rothbury — a rural area in NSW’s Hunter region — about 7.50pm on Saturday.

She and the 27-year-old female driver managed to escape the car, but the woman was swept away.

The driver was uninjured.

The search was suspended overnight but is set to resume on Sunday.

During the rescue response, NSW State Emergency Service (SES) crews also found a 40-year-old man clinging to a tree nearby after he too became trapped in floodwaters.

He was swept further downstream along Black Creek before SES crews could reach him.

Crews managed to follow him and eventually pull him to safety.

He was treated by paramedics before being taken to hospital for assessment.

Old North Rd remains closed due to flooding, and residents in affected areas are urged to avoid hazards such as damaged power lines and floodwaters across roads.

NSW is experiencing major to moderate flooding across the state, with 1455 incidents reported amid heavy rain, thunderstorms and snow.

The SES said a number of flood rescues were carried out overnight, with most involving people trapped in vehicles after driving into floodwaters.

An emergency warning remains in place for parts of Scone due to major flooding, with residents urged to evacuate.

Major flood warnings have also been issued for the Peel and Namoi Rivers at Tamworth, Manilla and Gunnedah.

Meanwhile, moderate flooding is expected on the Paterson and Williams Rivers at Gostwyck Bridge, Dungog and Mill Dam Falls, while minor flood warnings have been issued for the Myall, Severn, Manning, Gloucester, Macleay, Nepean and Gwydir Rivers.

In addition, unprecedented snowfall around Armidale and Guyra on Saturday afternoon has created dangerous road conditions.

SES crews responded as more than 100 vehicles became stuck in snow on the New England Hwy, Waterfall Way, Norris Dr and Grafton Rd.

Rainfall is expected to ease on Sunday, with 20mm to 50mm forecast over 24 hours.

However, river levels remain a concern, the SES said.

Members of the public are strongly advised never to drive through floodwater.

“If you come across a flooded road, stop, turn around and find another route,” the SES warned.

Unnecessary travel should be avoided, especially as black ice may cause hazardous road conditions.

Stay updated on the latest warnings and weather information.

If you require assistance, contact the NSW SES on 132 500.

For life-threatening emergencies, always call triple-0.