Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Heavy Rainfall in Northern Rivers District, NSW

Alert Details

The Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning (IDN21033) for heavy rainfall. This high-priority alert is currently in effect for parts of the Northern Rivers Forecast District in New South Wales.

Affected Areas

The warning specifically covers parts of the Northern Rivers region. Locations that may be affected by the storm activity include Tweed Heads and Hastings Point.

Expected Conditions

A slow-moving line of heavy showers and isolated thunderstorms has developed across the district. This system is moving slowly to the north and is expected to produce isolated areas of heavy rainfall throughout the morning and afternoon.

Significant rainfall totals have already been recorded in the region:

• Byron Bay: 75.5 mm of rainfall in the 1 hour leading to 12:46 pm.
• Coopers Shoot: 106 mm of rainfall in the 3 hours leading to 12:45 pm.

These severe thunderstorms are likely to produce heavy rainfall that may lead to dangerous flash flooding within the warning area over the next several hours.

What You Should Do

The State Emergency Service (SES) advises residents to take the following precautions:

• Keep clear of creeks and storm drains.
• Do not walk, ride your bike, or drive through flood water.
• If you are trapped by flash flooding, seek refuge in the highest available place and call 000 if you require rescue.
• Stay indoors, away from windows, and keep children and pets inside.
• For emergency assistance in floods and storms, contact the SES at 132 500.
• Monitor updates via the Hazards Near Me NSW app.

Timeline

The warning was issued at 1:08 pm on Friday, 13 March 2026. The weather situation is ongoing, and the next official warning update is scheduled to be issued by 4:10 pm.