Source: Bureau of Meteorology

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.

Catchments likely to be affected include:

Orara RiverMinor flooding

Coffs CoastMinor flooding

Bellinger and Kalang RiversMinor flooding

Nambucca RiverMinor flooding

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.

Rainfall and River Conditions Map