Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Northern Rivers: Flash Flooding Threat from Heavy Rainfall

Alert Details

The Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for heavy rainfall. This high-priority alert was issued at 7:51 am Friday, 13 March 2026, for residents in parts of the Northern Rivers Forecast District.

Affected Areas

The warning specifically covers portions of the Northern Rivers region in New South Wales. Locations that may be affected by the storm system include:

• Byron Bay
• Ballina
• Mullumbimby
• Alstonville
• Brunswick Heads

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 and away from windows; keep children and pets inside.
• For emergency assistance in floods and storms, contact the SES at 132 500.

Expected Conditions

A slow-moving line of heavy showers and isolated thunderstorms has developed within the Northern Rivers district. The line is currently moving toward the north and is expected to produce isolated areas of heavy rainfall throughout the morning. These conditions are likely to lead to flash flooding in the warning area over the next several hours.

Timeline

The alert was issued at 7:51 am on Friday, 13 March 2026. The Bureau of Meteorology expects to issue the next update by 10:55 am. Residents are encouraged to monitor the Hazards Near Me NSW app or the BOM website for real-time updates.