Sydney's Delta Cases Hit New Peak, Prompt Tougher Lockdown

New South Wales, Australia's biggest state economy, recorded 239 new cases Thursday -- the highest tally since this outbreak started in Sydney in mid-June and up from 177 the day before.

Sydney's delta-outbreak cases have reached a new peak even as the Australian city nears the end of its fifth week under strict stay-at-home orders, triggering authorities to implement further restrictions and penalties to enforce compliance. New South Wales, Australia's biggest state economy, recorded 239 new cases Thursday -- the highest tally since this outbreak started in Sydney in mid-June and up from 177 the day before. At least 70 cases were active in the community while infectious, concerning health officials that the delta-variant of the coronavirus may further spread in the city of almost 6 million people. "Based on those numbers, we can only assume that things are likely to get worse before they get better," New South Wales state Premier Gladys Berejiklian told reporters on Thursday. Two more people had died, she said. Berejikian said mask-wearing in public would be mandated for the city's worst-hit areas, with penalties increased from a A$200 ($147) fine to A$500. Stricter travel restrictions will be implemented, and thousands of additional police officers are being tasked with ensuring compliance.