The State Emergency Service (SES) is urging Northern Rivers residents not to be complacent, with more wet weather on the way this week and catchments already saturated.

The Bureau of Meteorology is forecasting heavy rain from Wednesday, with 40–90mm expected across parts of the central and northern coast and isolated falls above 120mm. However, at this stage the heaviest rain is expected more to the south and west.

Despite that, authorities say the risks here remain real. With dams, creeks and water storages already at high levels, even moderate falls could trigger flash flooding and renewed river rises.

An initial flood watch has been issued for the Orara, Bellinger, Nambucca, Macleay, Hastings, Peel and Namoi Rivers.

Assistant Commissioner Colin Malone said the region’s sodden catchments leave little room for error.

“We know northern NSW is already saturated from recent events, and will respond quickly to further rainfall. Thunderstorms could also bring sudden localised downpours and flash flooding,” he said.

SES Advice: Stay Prepared

Assistant Commissioner Malone urged residents across the Northern Rivers to take simple steps now.

“Download the Hazards Near Me app, set up a watch zone for your neighbourhood, and know your flood risk. Have an emergency plan for where you’ll go and what you’ll do if flooding hits.”

For the latest warnings, visit the NSW SES or Bureau of Meteorology websites.

• SES assistance: 132 500
  
• Life-threatening emergency: Triple Zero (000)