Further Heavy Rain is forecast for parts of the Northern Rivers this afternoon and into the night.

44mm of rain has fallen in Lismore and Nimbin since 9 am with predictions of another 20-40mm throughout Sunday.

The Bureau of Meteorology is predicting heavy rainfall, damaging winds and thunderstorms across many areas of the East Coast today including the Northern Rivers. This has the potential to cause flash flooding and possible riverine flooding.

Widespread rainfall is forecast across these areas with some isolated heavy downfalls possible. With recent rainfall, many of the river catchments in the Northern Rivers are already saturated.

With the possibility of further severe storms and heavy rain, NSW SES Northern Zone Chief Superintendent Steve Patterson urges residents to prepare their homes now especially if there is a break in the weather.

With the possibility of further severe storms and heavy rain, NSW SES Northern Zone Chief Superintendent Steve Patterson urges residents to prepare their homes now especially if there is a break in the weather.

“While communities down south are experiencing the brunt of the severe weather, the Northern Rivers needs to remain prepared.”

“Bring in or secure any outdoor items in the yard or on the balcony, check your gutters are clear and your roof is in good condition, trim any overhanging branches”.

Chief Superintendent Patterson added, “Rainfall over the last few weeks in the Northern Rivers has contributed to a number of soaked catchments. This means water runoff and flash flooding is more likely in these areas.”

NSW SES urges residents and visitors to avoid unnecessary travel and if you need to; take the time to plan your trip, check road closures and traffic conditions before you travel. NSW SES advise to never drive, ride or walk through floodwater as this is the main cause of death during floods.

“It’s important that drivers slow down on the roads and drive to the conditions,” Chief Superintendent Patterson said. “If you come across a flooded road please make the safe decision. Turn around, it’s just not worth the risk!”

Stay alert this week, listen to any updates and advice and monitor the Bureau of Meteorology website on www.bom.gov.au