Daily News Roundup

 

BOM warns of flash flooding as rain brings bushfire relief across NSW

Rain falling across NSW is offering some relief for fire crews battling blazes, but there are concerns the wet weather could cause landslides, flash flooding and contaminate water.

Cool, wet conditions are good news for firefighters who have been battling hundreds of blazes across the state since September.

The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) predicted between 30 and 80 millimetres of rain would fall in some areas between today and Sunday.

The heavens opened over Sydney this morning and about 20-40mm is set to fall over the next few days.

Meanwhile, the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) said there were already “good falls” across some firegrounds.

The downpour is a result of a deep inland trough moving through the state which is drawing humid air into the system.

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Vladimir Putin calls for overhaul of Russian constitution, hours later Government and PM resign

The Russian Government and its Prime Minister have resigned, hours after President Vladimir Putin proposed a constitutional overhaul that could extend his stay in power.

Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev submitted his resignation hours after Mr Putin discussed the constitutional amendments during his annual state-of-the-nation address on Wednesday (local time).

During his speech, Mr Putin proposed amending the constitution to increase the powers of prime ministers and Cabinet members.

The proposed move is seen as part of Mr Putin’s efforts to carve out a new position of power for himself to stay at the helm after his current term as president ends in 2024.

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NSW grazier shaves beard he’s been growing for 21 months after getting an inch of rain

Nick Andrews from Farmcote Station in far west NSW has finally shaved his beard after 21 months of growth.

The grazier vowed to grow his beard until at least an inch of rain fell on his property, and yesterday got his reprieve.

Thirty-six millimetres of rain fell on the station, which is more than has fallen in the last three years combined.

“I thought we were just getting a dust storm because it was pretty dusty and windy, but yeah, I was very surprised,” Mr Andrews.

“We probably got more rain yesterday than the whole of last year.

After almost two years of beard growth, Mr Andrews said getting rid of it was a momentous occasion.