Residents across Lismore and the Northern Rivers are being urged to stay alert this afternoon, with very dangerous thunderstorms forecast to bring heavy locally intense rainfall and the risk of dangerous and life-threatening flash flooding over the next several hours.

The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Lismore and most of the Northern Rivers for heavy rainfall. An easterly moist onshore flow is forcing persistent showers and thunderstorms about the Northern Rivers this afternoon.

110 mm of RAINFALL HAS BEEN RECORDED AT TUCKURIMBA (LISMORE) IN THE 3 HRS TO 3:15 PM. 68.6 mm of rainfall has been recorded at Green Pigeon in the hour to 1:13 pm.

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding in the warning area over the next several hours.

The State Emergency Service advises that people should:

* Keep clear of creeks and storm drains.

* Don't walk, ride your bike or drive through flood water.

* If you are trapped by flash flooding, seek refuge in the highest available place and ring 000 if you need rescue.

* Stay indoors away from windows, and keep children and pets indoors as well.

For emergency help in flood and storms, ring the SES on 132 500.

Stay updated on the Hazards Near Me NSW app or the ACT ESA website (https://esa.act.gov.au).

Check https://www.bom.gov.au/weather-and-climate/warnings-and-alerts. Warnings are also available through TV and Radio broadcasts or call 1300 659 210. The Bureau and State Emergency Service would appreciate warnings being broadcast regularly.