Planned surgery and outpatient care services will remain temporarily suspended in Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD) as Tropical Cyclone Alfred bears down on the region.These temporary service changes, which began on Thursday, 6 March, will continue through until close of business on Monday, 10 March when we will have a better understanding of the recovery in front of us. Those affected by these temporary changes will be notified.Services affected include:Specialty outpatient services at hospitals will be postponed and rescheduledPlanned surgery will be postponed and rescheduledCommunity-based services: no site-based clinics will operate on Monday, with virtual services available where possibleDental clinics will operate based on staffing and site availabilityBreastScreen services: the Tweed and Lismore facilities will remain closed until further noticeThe following services will resume on Monday, depending on local conditions:Radiotherapy, chemotherapy and renal servicesHospital-in-the Home, palliative care, Urgent Care Service, transitional aged care, and community nursing servicesCommunity Health Centres: staff will follow up with clients virtually to ensure plans are in place for patients to receive treatment at homeBreastScreen Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour servicesFor further updates, please check the Northern NSW Local Health District website and our social media pages.Tracey Maisey, Chief Executive, Northern NSW Local Health District said, “Our teams are working tirelessly to ensure our community receives the care they need during this challenging time.“Emergency departments at our hospitals are open for anyone who needs emergency care.“For those with less urgent care needs, we encourage you to call the free health care advice service, Healthdirect on 1800 022 222, where registered nurses are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week and you can be connected with virtual care services if required.“We are incredibly grateful for the dedication of our staff, many of whom have made the decision to remain at work over the next few days, ensuring continuous care and support for our community.“We understand many people may be feeling concerned about the approaching weather event, and we encourage them to seek help if needed.” Helpful resourcesIf your life is in danger, please call Triple Zero.If you or someone you know needs specialist mental health care, please call the Mental Health Line on 1800 011 511. It is a free service operating 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and is staffed by specialist mental health professionals who offer mental health advice, and referrals to local mental health services.If you need crisis support, please call Lifeline Australia at any time on 13 11 14. Children and young people can call Kids Helpline at any time on 1800 55 1800 or chat online at kidshelpline.com.auFor non-crisis support, please call beyondblue on 1300 22 46 36. There’s also a range of online resources to support you and your loved ones. Please visit Beyondblue and Lifeline online. Young people should visit heaspace.org.au, Kids Helpline or ReachOut.comMore information on mental health services and support can be found on the NSW Health website at www.health.nsw.gov.au/mentalhealth/services/Pages/default.aspxFor free health advice anytime day or night, call Healthdirect on 1800 022 222. Need support in your language? You can call the Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National) on 131 450 and ask for Healthdirect.

There is only one event on this weekend, with Tropical Cyclone Alfred stealing the show and cancelling all others.For this Weekend Wrap, we feel Lismore App readers need a smile as Alfred crosses the coast and we look toward the cleanup and recovery.Have a laugh with the Friday Funnies!

Tropical Cyclone Alfred looks likely to cross the mainland at around 10am Saturday morning according to the latest information from the Bureau of Meteorology.Alfred is 70 kilometres east of the Gold Coast travelling at 6 kilometres per hour.The Wilsons River at Lismore has now reached the moderate flood level of 7.2m for the first time since February 25th 2022. At 10:42pm the river height is 7.84m.The expectation is a major flood (9.7m) will be reached Saturday morning, and with forecast rainfall a river level of 10.6m may be reached late Saturday morning.Since 9am, 120mm has fallen at the Lismore airport, following the 147.8mm to 9am this morning (Thursday and Friday morning).The forecast is for 35 to 130mm to fall on Saturday before a further 15 to 70mm on Sunday.Parts of Mullumbimby to the East of the railway line, including Argyle Street and surrounds have been advised to EVACUATE BEFORE 8am Saturday (March 8) due to cyclone related major flooding.Parts of Mullumbimby to the south of Fern Street, including Jubilee Avenue, Byron Street, Cedar Street, Myokum Street, Stuart Street, Orchid Place, Station Street and Small Lane and surrounding areas have also been asked to EVACUATE BEFORE 8am tomorrow.You must evacuate before this time because heavy rainfall will close evacuation routes. Cyclonic wind gusts may cause roads to be blocked and power outages may occur.Evacuation InformationYou should evacuate to stay with family, friends, or alternate accommodation in areas unaffected by flooding. If you are unable to find accommodation, Evacuation centres have been set up at at the Mullumbimby RSL, 58 Dalley St, Mullumbimby.If you remain in the area, you may become trapped without power, water, and other essential services. It may be too dangerous for NSW SES to rescue you, and buildings may not be able to withstand the impact of flood water.In other parts of the Northern Rivers, Kyogle, as expected, is looking to a major flood on Saturday. At 10pm (Friday), the Richmond River is 14.86m, which is just above a moderate flood level (14.4m). A major flood will be reached at 16.0m.The NSW SES has advised people in the following area(s) of Kyogle to PREPARE TO ISOLATE: Caddie AvenueEagle CourtGolfview DriveParts of Collins Creek RoadYou should monitor the situation and prepare to be isolated by floodwater. Consider the effects isolation will have on family, work, and educational commitments. You may be trapped without power, water, and other essential services, and it may be too dangerous for NSW SES to rescue you. Casino is still below the minor flood level of 11.9m, it is currently 7.47m. The Richmond River at Casino may reach the moderate level of 14.9m on Saturday.At Coraki, the minor flood level of 3.4m has been reached. The 10pm reading is 3.63m and rising. The river is likely to exceed the moderate flood level (4.5m) overnight Friday into Saturday morning and may reach the major flood level (5.7m) Saturday afternoon with forecast rainfall.At Woodburn, the Richmond River is expected to exceed the minor flood level (3.2m). It is currently 2.42m. The river is likely to exceed the moderate flood level of 3.7m on Saturday morning and may reach the major flood of 4.2m tomorrow afternoon with forecast rainfall.A further update will occur in the morning as Alfred crosses the Queensland coast at around 10am.

The NSW SES is advising people in low-lying properties along Leycester Creek to MOVE TO HIGHER GROUND due to forecast cyclone-related flooding. This follows the earlier advice for low-lying properties along Terania Creek and surrounds.Rising floodwater is making it unsafe to evacuate the area. You should immediately go inside a sturdy multi-storey building with access to upper levels. Do not enter the roof cavity as you may become trapped.. Move as high above ground as possible. You may now be trapped without power, water, and other essential services and it may be dangerous for NSW SES to rescue you. What are we expecting?Based on the predictions from the Bureau of Meteorology, rainfall associated with Tropical Cyclone Alfred may cause rapid river rises and extensive flooding. Heavy and locally intense rainfall is forecast from Thursday into the weekend over Northern NSW. Flash flooding is possible. High tides and large waves are expected to increase the flood risk and impacts in low lying coastal areas.This event may change quickly. NSW SES will monitor the situation and update warnings if the situation changes.What you need to do:Gather your essential possessions. These might include mobile phone, charger, battery-powered radio, medicine, rain gear, warm clothes, blankets, baby and pet items, water, food, torch, something to attract attention, and valuables like photos and insurance or banking records.Advise family and friends of your location.Keep moving to stay above the rising water level if necessary.Do not start driving in affected areas during flash flooding. If you are already driving, avoid flooded roads and find the highest nearby place to stop. Flash flooding can cause cars to stall, fill with water, or be swept away.Relocate waste containers, chemicals, and poisons well above floor level.Do not enter floodwater as there is a high risk you may be swept away. Consider alternative ways to evacuate if possible.People working or camping along the river should monitor river heights and be prepared to relocate to higher ground.For more information:Listen to your local ABC radio station which can be found at reception.abc.net.auDownload the Hazards Near Me app and set your watch zones to get warning information for your areas.Follow us on social media @NSWSES or visit our website at www.ses.nsw.gov.auLearn about your risk at www.ses.nsw.gov.au/knowyourriskCheck latest weather, warnings, rainfall and river heights at www.bom.gov.au/nsw/Check road closures at www.livetraffic.com.au or 132 701 or your local Council.Check disruptions to public transport at www.transportnsw.info/alerts or call the Transport Infoline on 131 500For information on temporary school closures in your area, check www.education.nsw.gov.au/schooling/school-operational-statusBe advised there is current Watch & Act - Stay indoors warning in place for the Northern Rivers.For emergency assistance during a flood, storm or tsunami, call the NSW SES on 132 500. In a life-threatening emergency, call Triple Zero (000).

Residents in Northern NSW are being warned they could be without electricity for multiple days, as Tropical Cyclone Alfred delivers hazardous winds and rain, damaging the electricity network.As of 4pm today, more than 38,000 homes and businesses are without power in the Northern Rivers and Far North Coast, mostly due to damage caused by falling trees and branches. The worst hit areas are between Tweed Heads and Yamba.Essential Energy, the electricity distributor for the region, is warning residents that due to severe weather, it is currently unsafe to access and repair damaged power infrastructure. However, they will resume repairs as soon as conditions allow.This means households and businesses need to prepare for the possibility of extensive and extended power interruptions over the coming days.What to do before a power outage:Keep battery-powered torches charged and easy-to-find.Ensure your car has petrol or if you have an EV, make sure it is charged.Have backup methods to safely prepare food and boil water, such as a camp stove or gas BBQ.Know how to turn off power to your home.Have manual overrides for garage doors and gates so you can enter and exit.If you rely on an electric pump for your household water supply, store enough water for your needs while the power is off.Have a list of emergency and important phone numbers, in case your mobile phone battery runs out.What to do during a power outage:Stay 8 metres away from damaged wires and fallen powerlines. Call Essential Energy on 13 20 80 to report the damage.Never enter flood waters, as damaged electricity infrastructure can cause electric shock.Limit mobile phone use. Save your battery for important calls and updates.Switch off appliances that can be damaged during power surges, including TVs, computers and Wi-Fi routers.Do not attempt to repair electrical issues yourself or try to use any external power generation sources indoors, such as an external or portable generator.Petrol or diesel-powered generators can produce carbon monoxide gas and must only be operated in a well-ventilated outdoor area away from open windows and vents.If you must run your vehicle to charge devices, do it outside with good ventilation.Follow the NSW Food Authority’s advice on food safety and try to limit the number of times you open the fridge and freezer.In a life-threatening situation, always call Triple Zero (000).Energy retailers are supporting residents who rely on medical equipment. If you have registered your medical equipment, you should be contacted by Essential Energy or your energy retailer (the company that delivers your electricity bill).The NSW Government is working with partners in the energy industry to coordinate preparation for the Tropical Cyclone and ensure all resources are ready to respond.Essential Energy has moved additional crews, generators, fuel pods and mobile communication systems into the region. It has also established support arrangements with Ausgrid and Energy Queensland in case they are required. Endeavour Energy has also offered support if needed.Ampol and BP are publishing on their websites the locations of service stations that will be open throughout the duration of Tropical Cyclone Alfred. These are mainly self-service stations and are intended mainly for use by emergency services. For further fuel station impacts and closures use the FuelCheck App: www.fuelcheck.nsw.gov.au/app.NSW authorities are working with the Commonwealth to secure additional generator capacity.More information about what to do before, during and after a storm is available online: What is a power outage and what to do(www.energy.nsw.gov.au/households/guides-and-helpful-advice-households/what-power-outage-and-what-do).Live updates on outages are available on the Essential Energy website: Power Outages (www.essentialenergy.com.au/outages-and-faults/power-outages).Minister for Energy, Penny Sharpe said, “Households and businesses need to prepare for the real possibility that they will be without power for an extended period of time.“We know this is distressing. Energy companies are working to restore power as soon as it is safe to do so. However, dangerous conditions will likely prevent crews accessing and repairing damage to the network for some time.“Energy and water do not mix, and pose a threat to residents and energy workers. It is crucial residents stay well away from fallen power lines and damaged electrical equipment.”

At today's media briefing at the Goonellabah Sports Club, Acting Superintendent NSW SES Stuart Fisher said he expected the Lismore Levee to be topped sometime tomorrow and reach the 11 metre mark."But again heavily dependent on the water flows that we monitor, and we do expect it to top sometime on Saturday."With a little luck and less rainfall in the catchments in the next 24 to 48 hours, there is a chance the levee won't be topped. We are talking fine lines at this stage of the event.Premier Chriss Minns praised the majority of people who heeded the evacuation orders yesterday evening."We want to report this afternoon, that there has been widespread community support and compliance with evacuation orders in the Northern Rivers. Now this is fantastic news. This is an example of the public rallying to the SES message. And yesterday afternoon, thousands of people, literally thousands of people, were asked to leave their home. The message that we're reporting today is that it has happened. This is a huge relief to the SES, to the local council, to the New South Wales Government."It means that people are following the messages that the government is giving, and they're keeping themselves and their families safe as a result. So, if you're one of the few people that are remaining in your house and you're in an evacuation area, you're one of the only people in your street left, and you will literally be by yourself. So please follow these evacuation orders, unless you have to stay off the roads. It's hugely important.Contrary to the media briefing from Sydney this morning, Essential Energy crews are still working on restoring electricity to tens of thousands of houses across the Northern Rivers. In fact, there were 43,000 houses without electricity this morning, and Essential Energy managed to reduce the number to 36,500 after working in very hazardous conditions as Alfred approaches the coast."This is an example of Essential Energy workers, linesman and electricians, working very hard in dangerous, hazardous conditions to get as much of the public reconnected as possible. However, we're expecting multiple days for much of that community to be switched on to electricity."I don't want the public to believe that this is because crews haven't been pre-positioned, but any reasonable person would acknowledge that in these conditions, we need to make sure that crews are safe and that they can get too power outages to reconnect communities. They're going to do it as soon as possible, but they need to do it in a safe way. Falling debris is still a major issue. That's why we're asking people to stay off the roads. Please follow directions.Acting Supt Fisher mentioned that there are over 29,000 dwellings under evacuation orders involving 19,000 people. There are 18 emergency warnings to evacuate and 24 'watch and acts' to prepare to evacuate."It is really pleasing for us to see that our warnings are being acknowledged and treated and the members of the public are treating this seriously. As a result of that overnight, we only had five flood rescues. That goes to show us that everyone is listening to us. As the Premier said, we don't expect you to drive through flooded waters. You are heeding that advice, and we thank you for that."District Commander of the Richmond Police District Scott Tanner is the Local Emergency Operations Controller of TC Alfred, he asked for people to not get complacent because the weather system has slowed.."He is still packing a very mighty punch. So we will see weather conditions deteriorate over the next couple of days. We need to remain vigilant. You need to look after your friends, family, and also your neighbours. We have several evacuation centres that are open right across the Northern Rivers. They are all operating 24/7. We are working around the clock with logistics and resupply, so they are coming, and we just ask the community to continue to do what they've been doing, and heed the advice."Red Cross's Jenny Dowell said the SCU Evacuation Centre, which had 40 occupants yesterday, has risen to 215 at midday today with people still coming in."The agencies are working really well. It's calm. It's very well run. And could I say a shout out to the DCJ, who are running that centre really, really well in Lismore. At the moment, we have stretchers (beds), blankets, pillows, but we may encourage people to bring their sleeping bags because we may be testing those numbers. People are in four different blocks at Southern Cross University, depending on their needs, and it's running very, very well."Jenny explained the difference in 2025 compared to 2022, when everyone was put in the basketball hall, now the families are separated, the pet owners are separated, so it is providing a less stressed environment.With the M1 closed from Tweed Heads South to Ewingsdale, what is the likelihood of closures to the south and west on the Summerland Way outside of Casino, and how does that affect access for supply vehicles?Commander Tanner said, "We are seeing a number of local roads that have been cut. We do know that South is still open on the M1 we also have the Bruxner and Summerland Way are still passable. But what I want to reiterate again, is that if you don't need to be on the road, don't go on the road. Leave those roadway networks open for emergency services and resupply vehicles. Or if you are attempting to get to a safe location, by all means.""They will be under threat if the amount of water that is predicted to come, we will see blockages on those main arterial roads. As we saw in 2022, we had a fleet of helicopters. We have 178 ADF people already here, with 30 high clearance vehicles, so we have the capacity now to get through some of that higher flood water."2022 had such a devastating effect on Lismore, the Tweed, Coraki and Woodburn. Tropical Cyclone Alfred's destruction is more widespread, so the government and emergency services are covering a greater area."This is a serious issue for those communities, particularly low-lying communities close to the coast as well. And for obvious reasons, there is an intense focus on Lismore, but we're concerned about Tweed and the upper Byron area as well."Tropical Cyclone Alfred has not made landfall, so conditions are likely to worsen before improving. The big unknown is when Alfred crosses the coast and turns into a low-pressure system, will it stall and where?"We're not through this," Premier Minssa said, "We acknowledge that this is a long weather event. We know that it's been delayed, that we were expecting this on Friday morning. It's now likely to make landfall on Saturday around midday. However, we're asking the public to be vigilant, to continue to follow SES orders."Our sincere hope is that the community gets through this without any loss of life, and that we can, when this is all over, focus on the rebuild, but the priority at the moment is to keep community safe. And the best way of keeping yourself and your family safe, as well as an emergency service volunteer, is to download the Hazards Near Me app, evacuate if you're in an evacuation zone and never, ever drive through flood waters."At the time of writing this story, the Wilsons River at Lismore was 6.39m and rising towards the moderate flood level of 7.2m. It is expected to reach the moderate level later tonight.

Essential Energy repair crews have been stood down for safety reasons due to the effects of Tropical Cyclone Alfred.An Essential Energy spokesperson said conditions in the Northern Rivers and Far North Coast continue to be extremely dangerous, hindering restoration efforts for the over 43,000 homes and businesses without power. This number is expected to grow. "The largest impact at this stage are in communities between Tweed Heads and Yamba. "Crews were stood down at 3am this morning (Friday, 7 March) for safety reasons with no work to recommence until the weather caused by cyclone Alfred has passed. The safety of our crews is paramount. "Customers need to be prepared to be without power for several days due to the severity of the damage to the network, the amount of vegetation debris and the locations of flood waters. "Customers should be careful when connecting small home generators and be aware of the following:   Do not connect a generator directly to your home’s wiring system. An incorrectly connected generator has the potential to cause serious injury   Follow the manufacturer’s instructions   Operate the generator outdoors and away from windows   Do not overload the generator with appliances   Switch the generator off when refuelling or not in use   Rose Jackson, Minister for the North Coast, said, "I do want to reassure the community that everything is being done, so that as soon as it is safe to go back in and repair that infrastructure, it will be done."Crews are being pre-positioned now with equipment, but it's not safe at the moment. It's not safe for them to out and do that work."For up-to-date information on impacted locations and estimated restoration times (when known), visit the Essential Energy website outages page. If you see fallen powerlines or powerlines in water, please stay away and call Essential Energy on 13 20 80 to report the damage. In an emergency always call 000. 

Lismore has reached and surpassed the minor flood level (4.2m) at around 9:30 this morning. At 10:14am the Wilsons River height was 4.53m.At this stage Casino, Coraki and Kyogle are below minor flood level.A short time ago, the NSW SES advises people in the following area(s) to PREPARE TO EVACUATE due to predicted coastal inundation flooding for residents in Broadwater at Rileys Hill.If you are unable to find accommodation, Evacuation centres have been set up at Evans Head RSL, 11-13 McDonald Place, Evans Head.There was also a PREPARE TO EVACUATE notice for parts of Mullumbimby to the south of Fern St including Jubilee Ave, Byron St, Cedar St, Myokum St, Stuart St, Orchid Place, Station St and Small lane and surrounding areas. If you are unable to find accommodation, Evacuation centres have been set up at Mullumbimby RSL, 58 Dalley Street, Mullumbimby.You should monitor the situation and prepare to evacuate so that you can safely evacuate when instructed to do so by NSW SES. Wherever possible, you should prepare to stay with family or friends, or make other accommodation arrangements. Evacuation InformationIf you remain in the area, you may become trapped without power, water, and other essential services. It may be too dangerous for NSW SES to rescue you.What you need to do:If you have a Home or Business Emergency Plan, follow it. Otherwise, have a conversation and plan for what you will do and take with you if you need to evacuate.Have your mobile phone close and pack your charger, battery-powered radio, medicine, rain gear, warm clothes, blankets, baby and pet items, water, food, torch, something to attract attention, and valuables like photos and insurance or banking records.Wear enclosed shoes and pack warm clothes for at least three days to manage unseasonably cool conditions.Check your vehicle fuel levels and towed equipment (e.g., horse floats, trailers) to ensure you can safely evacuate.Arrange to evacuate to the home of family or friends who are in a safe location away from present and potential flooding. Consider how to transport your pet(s) and companion animals.Lift important belongings up onto tables, beds, benches, and shelves above predicted flood levels.Collect or create sandbags by filling pillowcases or shopping bags with sand and place them around doorways and in toilets and over drains to prevent rising sewage.Relocate waste containers, chemicals, and poisons well above flood level.Investigate whether there are other hazards (e.g., severe storms, landslip, flash floods) that will impact your ability to evacuate.Avoid storm drains and pipes, ditches, ravines, creeks, and rivers.Never drive, walk, ride through, play or swim in floodwater - it is dangerous, toxic, and may void your car insurance. If it's flooded, forget it. Fines apply.Obey all signs about road closures and instructions from emergency services.

Transport for NSW has reported the closure of the M1 Pacific Highway between Chinderah and Ewingsdale (Tweed Coast Road and Ewingsdale Road).The M1 was closed in both directions at 7:42am due to multiple hazards and weather conditions associated with Tropical Cyclone Alfred.The advice is to stay away, never drive through floodwater with the exception of emergency service vehicles.In Lismore, the usual roads have been reported as closed:Wyrallah Road at MonaltrieWyrallah Road at WyrallahBrewster Street, Lismore CBDTerania Street, North LismoreWilson Street, South LismoreBoundary Road, LindendaleBangalow Road between Howards Grass Road (Lismore) and Jarvis Street (Clunes)In Ballina:Boatharbour Road, BoatharbourEltham Road, TevenTeven Road and Bruxner Highway and North Teven RoadRoss Lane at Deadman's Creek, Lennox HeadMarom Creek Road at Youngman's Creek, Marom CreekPeople are reminded to stay indoors and never drive through flood waters.Keep up to date with road closures through Live Traffic https://www.livetraffic.com/.

Rous County Council has asked residents in the Northern Rivers to prepare for water supply interruptions in the coming days as more and more properties suffer power outages due to high winds and heavy rainfall.In a statement, Rous County Council said, "The treatment plants that ensure our water supply is safe to drink relies on power. So power interruptions can also cause disruptions to drinking water supply.Here's how you can prepare:Store at least 10L of water per person – this should be enough for about 3 days. Use clean containers with lids and consider freezing some to keep your refrigerator cool in case of power outages.Store additional water for cleaning and household purposes.Keep an eye out for notifications from Rous and your local council about any water supply interruptions.You can also check back here for water supply updates: https://rous.nsw.gov.au/public-notices.

Cape Byron has received the worst of the strengthening winds along the exposed east coast as Tropical Cyclone Alfred slowly mades its way toward the coast over night. Sarah Scully, a senior meteorologist with the Bureau of Meteorology said Cape Byron has recorded a mean wind speed of 92 km/h, and gusting up to 120 km/h. Evans Head was not far behind seeing 98 km/h wind gusts and Yamba 89 km/h."So, winds are really starting to strengthen, and they're expected to continue to strengthen and reach destructive throughout today," Sara said.The most rainfall associated with TC Alfred has been just west of Coffs Harbour with Meldrum recording 440mm and Dorrigo 429mm in the last 48 hours. In the Northern Rivers, Mullumbimby has received 321mm in the last 48 hours."The river systems are responding to the heavy falls, particularly across North East New South Wales on the southern flank of the system. In that onshore flow, the Bellinger River, is already at moderate flood level. So unfortunately, the northern river systems in New South Wales are already on their way to major flooding. "Major flood warnings have been issued for the Logan, the Tweed, the Brunswick, Wilson, Richmond, Orarra, Bellinger and Nambucca rivers of New South Wales, with more flood warnings and watches likely to be upgraded over the coming days as this weather event unfolds." As reported earlier on the Lismore App, Sarah Scully said Tropical Cyclone Alfred is likely to maintain the Category 2 strength as it approaches the offshore islands later tonight, and then the center of the system is expected to start to interact with the coast and weaken to a Category 1 system for the crossing of the mainland on Saturday morning."Alfred has continued to maintain a Category 2 strength overnight and continue in its westward movement, but it did slow down again, and as of 5:52am Daylight Savings Time, or 4:52am Queensland time, it's located around 195 kilometers east of Brisbane, or 180 kilometers east northeast of the Gold Coast."As you would expect there is a Tropical Cyclone Warning in place that extends to just short of Grafton for gale-force winds or damaging to destructive winds, heavy to intense rainfall that may lead to life-threatening flash flooding and as well, dangerous storm tides. There is also a Severe Weather Warning for North East New South Wales for both heavy to intense rainfall and damaging to destructive winds. Sarah Scull said it extends a little further inland than that tropical cyclone morning to include parts of the ranges this morning. "We've got six hourly rainfall totals, between 200 to 250 millimeters, and 24-hour rainfall totals between 350 to 450 millimeters and destructive wind gusts. Wind gusts up to 155 kilometers per hour are also possible. "We also have a coastal hazard warning that extends all the way from the Sunshine Coast down through the New South Wales, Queensland border into Nambucca Heads. Now this is for dangerous surf and abnormally high tides, and these will continue to bring inundation of low-lying areas and also significant coastal erosions."Keep up to date with the latest weather situation with the Bureau of Meteorology through the Lismore App Weather, Weather Radar, or the BOM directly http://www.bom.gov.au/.

Tropical Cyclone Alfred was 195 kilometres east of Brisbane and 180 kilometres east northeast of the Gold Coast at 5 o'clock this morning, slowly making its way to the coast as a Category 2 system.The Bureau of Meteorology says it is expected to remain of a similar intensity until it crosses the coast late tonight or early Saturday morning to Moreton Bay between Noosa and Coolangatta bringing 130 km/h wind gusts and heavy rain.Rainfall intensified last night with some significant falls across the Northern Rivers to 7am:Lismore Airport 112.2mm Alstonville 151mmEwing Bridge Corndale 126mmDunoon 111mmThe Channon 118mmJiggi 102mmNimbin 153mmTerania Creek 128mmLillian Rock 133mmGoonengerry 153mmMullumbimby Creek 142mmThe forecast is for the chance of a thunderstorm, possibly severe with damaging winds and heavy rain which may lead to flash flooding. Damaging wind gusts exceeding 90 km/h are expected due to Tropical Cyclone Alfred.Lismore is expecting the minor flooding point of 4.2m to be reached this morning. Currently the Wilsons River at Lismore is 3.49m at 7:13am. The Bureau is forecasting the moderate level (7.2m) to be reached later this evening and may reach major flood level (9.7m) on Saturday morning with the forecast rain.The Richmond River at Wiangaree is currently at 6.41 metres and rising, below the minor flood level (11.00 m). The Richmond River at Wiangaree may reach the moderate flood level (15.50 m) Friday evening. The river level is expected to exceed the minor flood level (11.00 m) overnight Friday into Saturday, with forecast rain.The Richmond River at Kyogle is currently at 7.88 metres and rising, below the minor flood level (12.00 m). The Richmond River at Kyogle is expected to reach the minor flood level (12.00 m) Friday morning. The river level is likely to exceed the moderate flood level (14.40 m) Friday afternoon and may exceed the major flood level (16.00 m) overnight Friday into Saturday, with forecast rainThe Richmond River at Casino Road Bridge is currently at 2.07 metres and rising, below the minor flood level (9.20m). The Richmond River at Casino Road Bridge is expected to exceed the minor flood level (9.20 m) overnight Friday into Saturday. The river level may reach the major flood level (15.00 m) overnight Saturday into Sunday, with forecast rain.The Richmond River at Casino (Automatic Gauge) is currently at 2.54 metres and rising, below the minor flood level (11.90 m). The Richmond River at Casino (Automatic Gauge) is expected to exceed the minor flood level (11.90 m) Friday evening. The river level may reach the major flood level (17.70 m) Saturday afternoon, with forecast rain.The Richmond River at Coraki is currently at 2.46 metres and rising, below the minor flood level (3.40 m). The Richmond River at Coraki is expected to exceed the minor flood level (3.40 m) Friday afternoon. The river level may reach the major flood level (5.70 m) Saturday evening, with forecast rain.The Richmond River at Bungawalbyn is currently at 2.39 metres and rising, below the minor flood level (3.00m). The Richmond River at Bungawalbyn is expected to exceed the minor flood level (3.00 m) Friday afternoon. The river level may reach the major flood level (5.00 m) overnight Friday into Saturday, with forecast rain.The Richmond River at Woodburn is currently at 2.22 metres and rising, below the minor flood level (3.20m). The Richmond River at Woodburn is expected to exceed the minor flood level (3.20 m) during Friday. The river level may reach the major flood level (4.20 m) during Saturday with forecast rain.

Cyclone Alfred has left over 35,000 homes and businesses without power in Northern NSW overnight after severe winds and heavy rain covered the region.The worst hit communities are in the Northern Rivers and Far North Coast.Essential Energy crews worked late into the evening to restore what they could safely until conditions became too dangerous to work in.Once safe to do so, crews will continue to restore power where they can until they are able to access areas of the network that are flooded or damaged by wind or vegetation debris.Due to the extreme conditions, the extent of the damage and the continuing weather event it may take several days before power is restored to customers.For up-to-date information on impacted locations and estimated restoration times (when known), visit our website outages page.If you see fallen powerlines or powerlines in water, please stay away and call Essential Energy on 13 20 80 to report the damage. In an emergency always call 000. 

At yesterday's media briefing District Commander of the Richmond Police District Scott Tanner provided an update on the evacuation centres."There's currently 40 persons that are in the SCU Evac Centre. We've got another 24 that are in the Evans Head Evac Centre. We've got them opened more or less all around the district at the moment, and we're ready and prepared to take people in.There is no doubt some of those evacuated from the Lismore CBD, South, Lismore, North Lismore and the Wade Park end of East Lismore would have spent the night at the evacuation centre.When asked about what was provided or avaialble to people looking for a roof, Commander Tanner said, "There is a variety as you can understand. We're putting resources here. And the analogy we give today, don't expect a cruise ship, this is a life raft."So it's somewhere where you can go and you can be safe if you're going there expecting that you're going to get a five-star service, it's not available. We are encouraging people that before they go to an evac centre, to explore all possible opportunities with friends and families so that they're in a more comfortable environment."A shout out to the various charity providers and their staff, who were providing some necessities for those that need them.Ross and Doug from Anglicare Disaster Recovery were handing out toothbrushes and toothpaste, deodorant, soaps, ladies' items, towels, underwear and socks. They were organising books and board games to keep people entertained while they batten down in the centre.The Salvation Army Northern Rivers team were feeding people healthy ham and salad wraps.Then there was the pet section run by a state government section incase anyone has to bring their fur babies with them.If you cast your mind back three years, when the evacuation centre was set up quickly out of necessity, it is easy to see that lessons were learnt and forward planning has made such a difference to those who will be staying at the SCU evacuation centre.As Commander Tanner said, try and stay with family and friends as your first option. If you do need emergency accommodation, you will find the SCU Evacuation Centre off Rifle Range Road, East Lismore, near the health precinct.If there is flooding on Military Road, you can access the centre from Kelas Street, Lismore Heights via the Bruxner Highway or the Rotary Drive roundabout. Turn onto Kelas Street, head down the hill to the university and take a left at the stop sign. The evacuation centre will be on your right at the bottom of the hill.

As the Wilsons River continues to rise, Lismore City Council has assessed the Lismore Levee Operation Plan with the NSW SES.They will soon commence early activation of the majority of the CBD flood gates.The closure of these gates is being prioritised in response to the unpredictable nature of the cyclonic environment and reduces the need for staff to be exposed to adverse weather conditions.The gates that will be closed are pedestrian and vehicle ‘access’ gates to carparks. They will not restrict critical flow paths or limit the urban area's ability to drain into the river.Those flood gates that will NOT be activated are:2 x Hollingworth Creek UpstreamHollingworth Creek Riverview ParkGasworks CreekBrowns Creek Flood GateThese five stormwater release gates need to be closed at specific river levels to ensure minimal localised flooding within the urban areas. They will remain open until these specific river levels are reached.Lismore City Council has also mobilised its road crews to install the deflector wall near Keen Street and Richmond Lane (down the side of Singhs Tyre and Mechanical). The deflector, also known as a Dutch Dam, is designed to protect buildings by diverting water and preventing damage caused by high-velocity debris.This installation is being completed in consultation with impacted businesses and is ahead of schedule due to the unpredictability of weather conditions.

Buses have been scheduled to help those asked to evacuate the Lismore CBD, South Lismore, North Lismore and parts of East Lismore.They will pick up at four bus stops in Lismore every 30 minutes from 7pm.Buses will go from the Lismore area to the Southern Cross University evacuation centre.This will pivot to higher frequency if passenger demand is higher than expected.Locations:North Lismore (has Shelter with accessibility): Outside Northern Rivers Hotel – Teranania StSouth Lismore: Outside Lismore Railway Stn, Union St. (undercover)Lismore CBD: Lismore Transit Centre – Molesworth StEast Lismore: Besides Spar Supermarket (Esmonde St) 

The NSW SES is directing people in the following area(s) of Lismore to EVACUATE BEFORE 9:00 pm Thu 06 Mar due to forecast cyclone related major flooding: LISMORE CBDLismore CBD and surrounds, including low lying parts of Molesworth, Coleman and Brunswick Streets near the river.EAST LISMOREEast Lismore in the vicinity of Wade Park.SOUTH LISMORESouth Lismore and surrounds including all properties along Kyogle Road between Casino Street and Leycester RoadLow lying areas near Ostrom StreetParts of South Lismore to the north of Hollingsworth CreekSouth Lismore industrial areaAll properties around Casino Street and Union StreetSouth Lismore Airport and surrounding areasNORTH LISMORENorth Lismore, including Lismore showground and all properties between Cusack Road, Woodlawn Road, Winterton Parade, Pitt Lane, Bridge Street, Terania Street and Dunoon RoadSavins Road, WoodlawnSt Johns College WoodlawnPitt LaneLow lying parts of Pine StreetWinterton ParadeWoterspoon StreetWotherspoon StreetYou must evacuate before this time because forecasted heavy rain fall will close evacuation routes.Evacuation InformationYou should evacuate to stay with family, friends, or alternate accommodation in areas unaffected by flooding. If you are unable to find accommodation, Evacuation centres have been set up at Southern Cross University, entry via Rifle Range Road, East Lismore (in the Health Precinct)If you remain in the area, you may become trapped without power, water, and other essential services. It may be too dangerous for NSW SES to rescue you, and buildings may not be able to withstand the impact of flood water.What are we expecting?Based on the predictions from the Bureau of Meteorology, rainfall associated with Tropical Cyclone Alfred may cause rapid river rises and extensive flooding. Heavy and locally intense rainfall is forecast from Thursday into the weekend over Northern NSW. Flash flooding is possible. High tides and large waves are expected to increase the flood risk and impacts in low lying coastal areas.This event may change quickly. NSW SES will monitor the situation and update warnings if the situation changes.What you need to do:If you have a Home or Business Emergency Plan, follow it.Gather your possessions for evacuation. These might include mobile phone, charger, battery-powered radio, medicine, rain gear, warm clothes, blankets, baby and pet items, water, food, torch, something to attract attention, and valuables like photos and insurance or banking records.Gather your pet(s) and companion animals for safe travel.Relocate waste containers, chemicals, and poisons well above floor level.The safest option is to evacuate as early as possible to avoid additional hazards. Do not wait until the last minute.Immediately move to a safer location away from present and potential flooding. Travel to the home of family or friends who are in a safe location away from present and potential flooding.If driving conditions are dangerous, safely pull over on higher ground away from trees, drains, low-lying areas, and floodwater. Find alternative travel routes if roads or underpasses are flooded.Be aware of road hazards including mud, debris, and damaged roads or bridges.Avoid storm drains and pipes, ditches, ravines, creeks, and rivers.Never drive, walk, ride through, play or swim in floodwater - it is dangerous, toxic, and may void your car insurance. If it's flooded, forget it. Fines apply.Obey all signs about road closures and instructions from emergency services.People working or camping along the river should monitor river heights and be prepared to relocate to higher ground.All campers and caravans relocate away from the sites next to water courses

The NSW SES has 24 'prepare to evacuate' orders for various communities in the Northern Rivers and the Mid North Coast as we head into the day with the most impact from Tropical Cyclone Alfred.Two of those were in the Ballina CBD and Fawcett Street, Kyogle as reported last night, with Coraki, Woodburn and Bungawalbin added this afternoon.In Lismore, the NSW SES says the Wilsons River is expected to exceed the minor flood level of 4.2m later this evening and may reach major flood level during Friday with forecast rainfall of 70mm to 150mm. At 3.42pm, it was 1.35m and steady.Other town centres in the Northern Rivers are on major flood watch, such as Kyogle, Casino, Coraki, Bungawalbin, Woodburn and Wiangaree. Premier Chris Minns was in Lismore for today's regular briefing. Along with Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin, "we are prepared" was the key message. That was reenforced by the fact that 2000 SES volunteers are ready to serve the community across the Northern Rivers plus the numerous high clearance vehicles, boats and air support.The Bureau of Meteorology mentioned a key variable in its recent update at midday as Alfred approaches the coast, and that is another stall just off the coast before landfall."There's more time for these rainfall totals to build and push onto the coast. And so, in terms of rainfall figures, we are still expecting to see those accumulated rainfall totals between 400 and 800mm. But higher isolated falls are possible, as you've seen, depending on how that system does move and how quickly or slowly it crosses the coast," Senior Meteorologist Jonathon How said.(A rainfall map from the BOM earlier today)Premier Minns wanted people to know the threat is not over, given the lull in weather activity, and asked everyone to do everything they can to prepare for the landfall crossing."Alfred, at the moment, is behaving a bit like a completely unwanted house guest. He has told us that it's going to be late, but linger even longer, and unfortunately, that means the window for destruction in our community, heavy rains, winds, powerful surf is longer than we would have otherwise liked."As a result of that, we're going to need the local community, we're going to be leaning on the local community, this resilient, tough, defiant community in the Northern Rivers, to do their bit. Very important that you prepare your house, particularly for loose items in the yard, on the roof, to make sure that it's not a, effectively a weapon that can fly as a result of high winds. Keep your documents together. Download the Hazards Near Me app. Never, ever drive through flood waters, put yourself in danger and an SES volunteer.""Regrettably, this town has gone through a lot in the last few years, and they know how to prepare for these natural disasters, but we're counting on them in the next few hours."Alfred stalling in the Coral Sea for 12 hours last night has given communites more time prepare. This was reiterated by Acting Superintendent Stuart Fisher from the NSW SES. He said, today will be their last day to prepare their properties. "Should they wish to stay, if they don't feel safe, then they should think about moving out, and tomorrow will be that day for that decision after that when, as I said before, when the storm hits, and particularly those high winds that will bring down trees and power lines, it may stop the egress of them coming or getting out, and for us to actually get in and to assist them."I cannot stress enough that this is a significant weather event. It is not like 2022 where we had a single event. We've had beach erosion, and which is occurring now. We'll have the very strong to dangerous and destructive winds over the next 24 to 48 hours, followed by those the torrential rain should that stall over land, we are predicting anywhere between the moment 300 to 400 mil of rain, but if it stalls, it will see an increase in the rainfall for around 600 to 700 mil of rain, which will cause, again, significant flooding on many of the river systems up and down the coast."We have currently issued over 300,000 sandbags, and there are still more to come. But again, today is the final day we believe for you to prepare your homes, and if you cannot prepare the homes, you feel unsafe to leave and leave by tomorrow."Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg said he was proud to see early preparation and felt we are so much better off now than in 2022."And that is heartening," he said, "But I want to stress to everyone that this is just the very start of what we're about to face, and so heed the warnings, critical that you heed the warnings. Don't put others in danger because you want to become an environmental tourist or take some of these selfies putting yourself in harm's way. Heed the warning, stay at home, protect your loved ones, and please stay safe. That's the most important thing. We need to get through this weather event together so that everyone is safe and well."Senator Tony Sheldon, the federal government's Special Envoy for Disaster Recovery, spoke about the Early Release Funds that was announced by the Prime Minister Anthony Albanese earlier today."To deal with the funding that's needed to make sure that we are dealing with the responses to the emergency that we're presently facing, will mean that councils and individual residents will be able to get early release of funds."It's the first time it's been done, and it's an important step in making sure that the community knows that all of us, both locally, community groups, the Premier and the Prime Minister, we are one, and we're going to be on the front foot in this event as it's arriving, and we're going to be at the front foot for the recovery afterwards."We know there'll be more work to be done after that, and we'll take those steps as necessary as the Premier and Prime Minister decide through their consultation with community."The Early Release Funds give councils reassurance that the money they spend on infrastructure repair in Alfred's aftermath will be an upfront payment rather than waiting up to two years to be reimbursed by the state government.The Prime Minister mentioned $1 million this morning, but the Premier did clarify far more is available to each council, as well as an amount for individuals that need help."It's really important that we get the message across. This is just the beginning. We know the scale of potential impacts as a result of these natural disasters. When we're prepared to walk, we want to walk the path with the Northern Rivers community, the people of Lismore in the event of the worst case scenario happening. The last three years you wouldn't wish it on your worst enemy. It's been a complete nightmare for the people of Lismore, but they are tough, incredibly resilient. They're optimistic about the future in all circumstances, and we're going to be relying on them in the days ahead."Kevin Hogan, Federal Member for Page reminded the community that this weather event is different to 2022."This is going to be different because of the wind. But I just want to repeat a couple of rainfall statistics that may happen, just so everyone can get their head around this, because we understand these 200 to 400 mils is going to be quite widespread, we get that, but we don't know exactly where yet, but there are going to be local falls in excess of 700 millimetres of rain in certain areas and certain catchments."That means the upper levels of what is expected may well happen. So, we've had time. But for anyone who hasn't, you have basically about 12 hours to further prepare. So that means, if you've lifted up, but you think you should have actually taken it physically higher, do that."If you're thinking about leaving your home because you think you may or maybe should, leave it now, because we don't know exactly where these in excess of 700 millimetre falls are going to be, but they're going to happen, and they're going to happen in certain catchments, and you have to prepare for that."So prepare for the worst, and we are all hoping and praying for the best, but you must prepare for the worst. And the worst is it's going to be as bad as we've ever seen, so you need to take precautions."When asked about the Lismore over topping, Premier Minns said, "There's not a prediction on that yet. I mean, if I'm going to be really candid about it. It's right at that level. But we've seen these storm fronts before, and I think Kevin's point is a good one, and it's well taken. There may be very intense, isolated rainfalls of up to 700 mils in particular areas. We're not sure whether it will fall directly in the Lismore catchment or not. So the best thing to do, as we've been saying for the entire week, is to prepare for the worst and hope for the best. And that's certainly what the SES has done over the last two weeks, and also Lismore council as well."Kyogle, is another town that is right in the firing line of Alfred's rage. The word is that Kyogle is likely to receive its second largest ever flood, above the 2008 level."If you look at some of the flood modeling, we're obviously concerned about it, that's why we're all here, and we've deployed resources. But I would just urge everybody to follow the Hazards Near Me app that will provide you with the latest information. That information may change, but the direction from the government and the SES will not. If you're under a prepare to evacuate order, it means exactly as it says, you should prepare for the event of evacuating, if the weather turns and it hits that community in a particular way. But until that happens, we're not going to make the call."February 28 2022 saw the SES 132 500 number and 000 fall over under the volume of calls made by people needing help and concerned family members and friends. How has this been improved in 2025?"We've put significant capacity into the emergency communications network for exactly these kinds of natural disasters. Look, I don't want to hypothecate about what could go wrong. I think we need to approach the gathering storm in a calm, methodical way, listen to the information and communication that's being communicated by the SES in particular, and if that happens and people follow the information that's being provided, I'm confident that we can weather this storm, but it's going to take all of us to do it."The Premiere mentioned that there are approximately 10,000 to 15,000 homes that are subject to a prepare to evacuate orders at the moment."That number may rise, and eventually evacuation orders may go out over a larger area. Now there's a couple of variables that the SES have already spoken about. Firstly, they want those evacuation orders to go out during daylight hours, which means they may preference it slightly earlier than they ordinarily would have, so that you're not getting an evacuation order at one o'clock in the morning like you did in 2022."So trying to learn to get best practice in place, make sure there's clear communications, but the storm path will change in the days ahead. We want to make sure the public's got up to date information."

The NSW SES is advising people in the following area(s) to PREPARE TO EVACUATE due to predicted moderate to major flooding: CorakiLow-lying properties along Richmond Terrace near the Club Hotel and the bowls clubWest Coraki including all properties on Kardina Street, Henderson Street, Box bridge Road, Progress Street, Dibbs Street and Purves StreetCoraki Golf Course.Doonbah and surroundsWoodburn and surrounds including all properties between River Street, Uralba Street, Langs Way and the Pacific MotorwayNorth Woodburn and surrounds including Forest Road, Bank Street and Kilgin RoadBungawalbin and surrounds including properties along Bungawalbin Whiporie Road, and Haughwood RoadYou should monitor the situation and prepare to evacuate so that you can safely evacuate when instructed to do so by NSW SES. Wherever possible, you should prepare to stay with family or friends, or make other accommodation arrangements. Evacuation InformationIf you are unable to find accommodation, Evacuation centres have been set up at Evans Head RSL, 11-13 McDonald Place, Evans Head NSW 2473If you remain in the area, you may become trapped without power, water, and other essential services. It may be too dangerous for NSW SES to rescue you.What are we expecting?Based on the predictions from the Bureau of Meteorology, rainfall associated with Tropical Cyclone Alfred may cause rapid river rises and extensive flooding along NSW coastal rivers.Heavy and locally intense rainfall is forecast from Wednesday into the weekend over Northern NSW. Flash flooding is possible. High tides and large waves are expected to increase the flood risk and impacts in low lying coastal areas.Be advised there is current Watch & Act - Stay indoors warning in place for the Northern Rivers.This event may change quickly. NSW SES will monitor the situation and update warnings if the situation changes.What you need to do:If you have a Home or Business Emergency Plan, follow it. Otherwise, have a conversation and plan for what you will do and take with you if you need to evacuate.Have your mobile phone close and pack your charger, battery-powered radio, medicine, rain gear, warm clothes, blankets, baby and pet items, water, food, torch, something to attract attention, and valuables like photos and insurance or banking records.Wear enclosed shoes and pack warm clothes for at least three days to manage unseasonably cool conditions.Check your vehicle fuel levels and towed equipment (e.g., horse floats, trailers) to ensure you can safely evacuate.Arrange to evacuate to the home of family or friends who are in a safe location away from present and potential flooding. Consider how to transport your pet(s) and companion animals.Lift important belongings up onto tables, beds, benches, and shelves above predicted flood levels.Collect or create sandbags by filling pillowcases or shopping bags with sand and place them around doorways and in toilets and over drains to prevent rising sewage.Relocate waste containers, chemicals, and poisons well above flood level.Investigate whether there are other hazards (e.g., severe storms, landslip, flash floods) that will impact your ability to evacuate.Avoid storm drains and pipes, ditches, ravines, creeks, and rivers.Never drive, walk, ride through, play or swim in floodwater - it is dangerous, toxic, and may void your car insurance. If it's flooded, forget it. Fines apply.Obey all signs about road closures and instructions from emergency services.