Australia towns flooded

Several towns in Australia have been declared disaster zones, after flash floods left thousands of people stranded.



More than 2,000 people were cut off in towns along the Bellinger River, after 18 inches of rain fell over the last 24 hours.



Many residents where trapped in schools and restaurants.



There were no reports of serious injuries but hundreds were taken to the hospital for treatment.



Officials say it will cost tens of millions of dollars to undertake restoration efforts.