The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a Severe Weather Warning for parts of the Northern Rivers for damaging winds and heavy rainfall.

A coastal trough near the northern and central New South Wales coast is bringing increased rainfall and other severe weather to the area.

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What do the official flood warnings mean?

This trough is expected to deepen and gradually shift southwards, increasing rainfall and bringing dangerous winds and surf conditions along the central and southern parts of the coast and adjacent ranges during the next few days.

 For some areas, intense rainfall rates and increased gusty winds are possible with thunderstorm activity or with the formation of mesoscale lows embedded within the coastal trough.

Heavy rainfall, which will likely cause flash flooding and riverine flooding, is possible for parts of the Northern Rivers today. From Friday afternoon or evening, the focus shifts further south.

The location of the heaviest falls will be determined by the movement and strength of the coastal trough, by where thunderstorms occur, as well as to the south of any transient low embedded within the coastal trough. 

Heavy rainfall is currently expected to ease for parts of the Northern Rivers and northern parts of the Mid North Coast on Saturday, although showers are likely to continue.

A Flood Watch and a number of Flood Warnings have been issued for this event for Lismore.

During the weekend, there is potential for heavy rainfall along parts of the southern coast and adjacent ranges as this system shifts its focus southwards. 

The State Emergency Service advises that people should:

* Move vehicles under cover or away from trees.

* Secure or put away loose items around your house, yard and balcony.

* Keep at least 8 metres away from fallen power lines or objects that may be energised, such as fences.

* Trees that have been damaged by fire are likely to be more unstable and more likely to fall.

* Report fallen power lines to either Ausgrid (131 388), Endeavour Energy (131 003), Essential Energy (132 080) or Evoenergy (131 093) as shown on your power bill.

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

* Keep clear of creeks and storm drains.

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

* Be aware that run-off from rainfall in fire affected areas may behave differently and be more rapid. It may also contain debris such as ash, soil, trees and rocks.

* After bushfires, heavy rain and the loss of foliage can make the ground soft and heavy, leading to a greater chance of landslides.

* Stay vigilant and monitor conditions. Note that the landscape may have changed following bushfires.

* For emergency help in floods and storms, ring your local SES Unit on 132 500.