The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) has warned that minor flooding is possible in Lismore and the Northern Rivers from Friday as two weather systems meet later tonight.

A cold front and its associated trough is crossing much of the state today (Thursday), before lingering and deepening about the northeast from Friday and into the weekend.

Moderate to heavy rainfall is forecast from Thursday evening through into the weekend across the Northern Rivers catchments. Locally intense falls are also possible with thunderstorms from Thursday evening through to Friday morning.

The forecast is for 15-70mm to fall on Friday, 10-45mm on Saturday and 10-70mm on Sunday.

This rainfall may cause minor flooding in the Northern Rivers catchments from late Friday.

The Northern Rivers catchments are relatively dry.

The exact location and timing of the heaviest falls remain uncertain.

Localised river level rises and flash flooding are possible within the areas of heaviest rainfall.

Flood classes (minor, moderate and major) are only defined for catchments where the Bureau provides a flood warning service.

Catchments likely to be affected include:

• Tweed and Rous Rivers: Minor flooding
• Brunswick River and Marshalls Creek: Minor flooding
• Wilsons River: Minor flooding
• Richmond River: Minor flooding

For the latest flood and weather warnings, see www.bom.gov.au/weather-and-climate/warnings-and-alerts.

For the latest rainfall and river level information, see www.bom.gov.au/australia/flood.

Safety advice

• Don't drive, walk, swim or play in floodwater because it is dangerous.
• Stay away from flooded drains, rivers, streams and waterways.
• Obey road closure signs. Plan ahead so you don't drive on flooded roads.
• Check the ABC and local media for updates. The situation can change quickly, so stay informed.
• For local emergency management warnings and advice, visit www.ses.nsw.gov.au.

The next Flood Watch will be issued by 01:00 PM Australian Eastern Daylight Time on Friday, 13 February 2026. The next Flood Watch will be issued by 01:00 PM AEDT on Friday, 13 February 2026.