Taree, Australia – Drone footage recorded on May 21 reveals severe flooding on the Pacific Highway, forcing a complete closure in both directions between Purfleet and Coopernook.

The closure has brought major disruption to travel through the region, as water levels continue to rise across the highway near Taree South.

Authorities are urging the public to avoid flood-affected areas and delay any non-essential travel.

For those who must drive, long diversions are in place.

Northbound vehicles must detour via the New England Highway from Beresfield to Glen Innes, then take the Gwydir Highway to South Grafton, and follow Big River Way to Tyndale before rejoining the M1 Pacific Motorway.

Southbound drivers are rerouted from Tyndale to South Grafton via Big River Way, then onto the Gwydir Highway to Glen Innes, and the New England Highway to Beresfield before rejoining the Pacific Highway.

The alternate route is suitable for vehicles up to 26-meter B-doubles and will add about three hours to travel time.

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