The NSW State Emergency Service (SES) is urging people in Tweed Shire, Byron Shire and the Lismore City Council area to be alert, but not alarmed as severe thunderstorms move through the region on Monday afternoon, January 1 and into the following day.
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Residents and visitors to those areas are urged to be vigilant and stay up to date with flood warnings as heavy rain impacts local catchments and causes flash flooding in low lying areas.
Flash flooding is likely in low lying areas, and moderate riverine flooding is possible in communities around the Tweed Rivers.
A flood watch is also in place for the Wilsons River, Richmond River and Orara River, which are all expecting minor flooding.
NSW SES Deputy Commissioner Debbie Platz said now was the time for people in those areas to be aware, prepare and consider their emergency plans.
"Flash flooding and minor to moderate riverine flooding is likely, and I would encourage the public to follow the advice of emergency service personnel on the ground and to not drive through floodwater," he said.
"People camping in low lying areas should move to higher ground immediately, and avoid campgrounds near rivers.
"We've already responded to a number of flood rescue calls in the Northern Rivers for campers impacted by floodwaters."
More heavy rain, which could be intense in isolated locations, is forecast from midnight to 8am across the Northern Rivers.
NSW SES has issued warnings to residents in the area, alerting them of their flood risk and encouraging them to prepare for the impacts of flooding.
Falls of more than 300mm in the 24 hours to 9am this morning were recorded in Numinbah and Limpinwood.
"The NSW SES has prepositioned assets and personnel, and we are well-resourced to respond to any calls for assistance," Deputy Commissioner Platz said.
For emergency help in floods and storms, call the NSW SES on 132 500.
In life threatening situations, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.
