Source: Bureau of Meteorology

For people in Northern Rivers and parts of Mid North Coast and Northern Tablelands Forecast Districts.

Issued at 7:45 am Saturday, 26 February 2022.

HEAVY RAINFALL FORECAST TO DEVELOP OVER NORTHEAST NEW SOUTH WALES ON SUNDAY.

Weather Situation: A surface trough over southeast Queensland is forecast to deepen into a low pressure system in response to a strong upper low later tonight. This low is expected to track southward into northeastern New South Wales on Sunday producing heavy rainfall with embedded thunderstorms.

HEAVY RAINFALL which may lead to flash flooding is forecast to develop over parts of northeast New South Wales during Sunday morning or afternoon. Six-hourly rainfall totals between 80 and 110 mm are likely, reaching up to 150 mm over coastal areas and ranges.

Locally INTENSE RAINFALL leading to dangerous and life-threatening flash flooding is possible with thunderstorms near the low with six-hourly rainfall totals up to 250 mm possible.

A Flood Watch and multiple Flood Warnings are current for parts of northeast New South Wales. For more details, please visit www.bom.gov.au/nsw/warnings

Locations which may be affected include Lismore, Grafton, Coffs Harbour, Byron Bay, Ballina, Casino, Kyogle, Yamba, Maclean, Woolgoolga, Sawtell and Dorrigo.

The State Emergency Service advises that people should:
* Don't drive, ride or walk through flood water.
* Keep clear of creeks and storm drains.
* If you are trapped by flash flooding, seek refuge in the highest available place and ring 000 if you need rescue.
* Be aware that run-off from rainfall in fire affected areas may behave differently and be more rapid. It may also contain debris such as ash, soil, trees and rocks.
* After bushfires, heavy rain and the loss of foliage can make the ground soft and heavy, leading to a greater chance of landslides.
* Stay vigilant and monitor conditions. Note that the landscape may have changed following bushfires.
* For emergency help in floods and storms, ring your local SES Unit on 132 500.