Lismore City Council is asking people to avoid the CBD as flash flooding affects most roads near The Square and the main block.

Council has also closed the Recycle and Recovery Centre on Wyrallah Road due to the flash floods.

Police close Dawson Street as flash flooding affects the CBD

The Bureau of Meteorology has reported Lismore received 149.2 mm since 9am this morning with 92mm in 2 hours as at 2:30 this afternoon.

The BOM has released a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for heavy rainfall for the Northern Rivers.

Traffic is at a crawl on Ballina Road as people head into the CBD from Goonellabah with reports of a 30-40 minute journey.

Live Traffic NSW has the route as 'very slow' in the map below.

The NSW SES are also asking people to stay well clear of floodwaters and remember to not drive, walk or ride through floodwaters.

If you require assistance from the NSW SES contact 132 500. If it is a life-threatening emergency, dial 000.