The NSW SES is warning anyone planning on travelling to the area to be mindful of the potential for severe rainfall that could lead to flash flooding.
The Bureau of Meteorology is predicting increasing severe thunderstorm activity across the Northern Rivers from Tuesday and the SES is urging people to prepare.
Chief Superintendent Greg Swindells, who is the North Eastern Zone Commander, warned flash flooding could happen quickly when heavy rain hits the area.
“These unsettled weather events can play on people’s anxieties, however taking the time now to prepare homes, clear your gutters, check on neighbours, stock-up on essentials, whilst also reviewing their emergency plans, will give some sense of control,” he said.
“The NSW SES urges all residents and visitors to consider their travel plans and reminds everyone it is not safe to drive through flood waters anytime, anywhere.”
People living in the Northern Rivers, Clarence Valley, and Coffs Coast should monitor the weather and road conditions closely.
More than 30,000 people in the Northern Rivers have faced significant flooding events over the past three years since the onset of the prolonged La Nina, with last year’s floods the worst on record.
Five people died when the town of Lismore was inundated, damaging 6000 properties with floodwaters reaching 14.4 metres.
An independent inquiry found the response was patchwork at best, with the federal government urged to take responsibility for the flood gauge network to ensure national consistency with data.
The Albanese government on Monday announced more it would spend $236 million in the next decade establishing a national network of flood gauges to protect at-risk communities..
Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek said Lismore would be a focus of upgrades to infrastructure.