The good news keeps rolling in for Lismore on a rainy Sunday, as the NSW SES has advised that the Lismore CBD, East Lismore near Wade Park, Upper Jiggi Creek, Upper Goolmangar Creek, Upper Black Creek at Bentley and Upper Terania Creek can return home with caution.

The advice from NSW SES is to take care when returning to the area as flood damage can be widespread. 

Acting Superintendent NSW SES Stuart Fisher told today's media briefing, "This morning, we reduced the warning in Lismore from an emergency warning to evacuate to advise return with caution. So that's the start of the process for us going forward now. And as some rivers start to recede, we will adjust those warnings appropriately."

So, for those in parts of South Lismore, North Lismore and the Wade Park area of East Lismore, it is only a matter of time before you can return home.

While that is good news for Lismore, the news for our neighbours to the south in the Clarence Shire has a number of prepare to evacuate orders in place, including Kempsey and Ulmurra.

Acting Supt Fisher gave the rainfall figures for Meldum, west of Coffs Harbour. They received 926mm over the cyclone period with next doo neighbour Dorrigo recieing 850mm. To give that some perspective, Lismore airport received 351.4mm in the last four days. If the Meldrum rainfall had fallen in the Lismore catchment, we would still be talking major floods and the levee being overtopped.

There were a further six flood rescues overnight, which included a family of eight.

"Unfortunately, one of those was a family of two adults and six kids tried to navigate through flooded waters. SES crews were able to get there, and they are safe. But again, it highlights the same issue we talk about time and time again. Do not drive through flooded waters.

"It absolutely astounds me that this still occurs, but in the end, a good result."

Before you do return home, the NSW SES say you need to:

• Drive slowly, plan your route carefully to avoid any flooded roads and allow extra travel time. Damage to roads and buildings caused by flooding may still exist in your area.
• Be aware of road hazards including mud and debris.
• Remain vigilant as there could still be water in low-lying areas.
• Take care as local roads could still have water over them.
• If your property has been affected by floodwater:
• Make sure your property is safe before entering. Check for damage to windows, walls and the roof and be careful of potential dangers including asbestos.
• Make sure the electricity and gas are turned off before going inside. Use a torch to carry out inspections inside buildings.
• If power points, electrical equipment, appliances or electrical hot water systems have been exposed to floodwater or are water damaged in any way, they must be inspected by a qualified electrician before use.
• Gas appliances and gas bottles that have been exposed to floodwater should be inspected for safety before use.
• Wear suitable protective clothing, including boots and gloves when cleaning up.
• Sandbags that have been in contact with floodwater need to be thrown away. Sturdy gloves should be worn when handling wet sandbags as they can contain chemicals, waste, and diseases.
• Be aware of any slip, trip or fall hazards.
• Never eat food which has been in contact with floodwater.
• Only use clean utensils and personal items.