IDN21137
Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology

TOP PRIORITY FOR IMMEDIATE BROADCAST

Coastal Hazard Warning

for DAMAGING SURF

For people in parts of Northern Rivers and Mid North Coast Forecast Districts.

Issued at 10:06 pm Thursday, 21 May 2026.

DAMAGING SURF Conditions for northern NSW.

Weather Situation:
A trough and low pressure system to remain offshore over the Tasman Sea for the next several days, whipping fresh to strong southerly winds and large powerful waves to the coastline from Friday.

DAMAGING SURF CONDITIONS which may lead to coastal erosion and localised damage to coastal infrastructure are possible between Point Danger and Smoky Cape from Friday morning, particularly for south facing beaches.

Beach conditions in these areas could be dangerous and people should stay well away from the surf and surf exposed areas.

Damaging surf conditions are expected to ease during Saturday morning.

Locations which may be affected include Coffs Harbour, Tweed Heads, Byron Bay, Yamba, Evans Head and Nambucca Heads.

A separate Hazardous Surf Warning is current at the time of issue.

The State Emergency Service advises that people should:
* Don't walk, ride or drive through flood water.
* Keep clear of creeks and storm drains.
* Stay vigilant and monitor conditions.
For emergency help in flood and storms, ring the SES on 132 500.
Stay updated on the Hazards Near Me NSW app or the ACT ESA website (https://esa.act.gov.au).

The next Coastal Hazard Warning will be issued by 5:00 am AEST Friday.

Check https://www.bom.gov.au/weather-and-climate/warnings-and-alerts. Warnings are also available through TV and Radio broadcasts or call 1300 659 210. The Bureau and State Emergency Service would appreciate warnings being broadcast regularly.