IDN36503

Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology

This Flood Watch provides early advice of possible flooding within the specified catchments

Initial Flood Watch for parts of the Mid North Coast and Northern Rivers

Issued at 1:43 pm AEST on Sunday 17 May 2026

Flood Watch Number: 1

ISOLATED MINOR FLOODING POSSIBLE IN THE ORARA, BELLINGER AND NAMBUCCA RIVERS AND COFFS CREEK

A cloud band and trough will cross eastern Australia and produce widespread showers and periods of rain over north east NSW during Monday and Tuesday. Isolated thunderstorms are possible near the north east NSW coast from Sunday.

Catchments in the flood watch area are relatively wet.

Minor flooding is possible with thunderstorms in Coffs Creek from overnight Sunday.

Isolated minor flooding is possible in the Orara, Bellinger and Nambucca Rivers from Monday with forecast rain.

For the latest flood and weather warnings see www.bom.gov.au/weather-and-climate/warnings-and-alerts

For the latest rainfall and river level information see www.bom.gov.au/australia/flood

Safety Advice:

• Don't drive, walk, swim or play in floodwater because it is dangerous.
• Stay away from flooded drains, rivers, streams and waterways.
• Obey road closure signs. Plan ahead so you don't drive on flooded roads.
• Check the ABC and local media for updates. The situation can change quickly, so stay informed.
• For local emergency management warnings and advice visit www.ses.nsw.gov.au.

For emergency assistance call SES on telephone number 132 500. In life-threatening emergencies, call 000 (triple zero) immediately.

Next Issue:

The next Flood Watch will be issued by 01:00 PM AEST on Monday 18 May 2026.