Dubbo Evacuated as Crane Collapses During Powerful Storm
Emergency evacuations are underway in Dubbo, western New South Wales, following the collapse of a crane during a powerful storm. The incident, which saw a crane subjected to 115-kilometre-per-hour winds, occurred before 4:00 PM in Dubbo's CBD.
Crane Boom Detaches and Collapses
A video captured the moment the crane, located on Blight Street, moved erratically in the strong winds before its boom detached. The detached boom subsequently collapsed into a nearby apartment building on Church Street.
Extensive Exclusion Zone and Evacuations
NSW Police have promptly established a 150-meter exclusion zone around the collapsed crane. As a precautionary measure, buildings on Bligh, Wingewarra, Church, Macquarie, and Talbragar streets have been evacuated. Remarkably, no injuries have been reported so far.
NSW Ambulance confirmed that the female crane operator was on site during the collapse but sustained no injuries. Four ambulances are currently present at the scene.
Widespread Power Outages Amidst Dust Storm
This incident coincides with a significant dust storm moving across western NSW, which has caused substantial damage to electricity infrastructure. Approximately 1,900 homes in and around Dubbo are currently without power. Traffic lights in the city's CBD have also lost power, adding to the widespread disruption.
Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued
The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a severe thunderstorm warning for Coonabarabran, Merriwa, Kandos, Mullaley, Boggabri, and Tambar Springs. Residents in affected areas are strongly advised to remain indoors and avoid fallen powerlines.