Source: Bureau of Meteorology

For people in Northern Rivers and parts of Northern Tablelands Forecast Districts.

Issued at 11:00 am Wednesday, 23 February 2022.

Heavy rainfall forecast to develop across northeast New South Wales later today.

Weather Situation: A strong upper trough and associated cut-off low will move slowly eastward across the southern and southeastern interior of Queensland during today and through Thursday. A surface trough near the northeast coast will deepen in response to this upper weather system. The surface trough is forecast to remain slow-moving through Thursday, producing areas of heavy rainfall with embedded thunderstorms.

HEAVY RAINFALL which may lead to FLASH FLOODING forecast to develop over areas northeast of Tenterfield, Jackadgery and Wooli later today and continue through Thursday. Six-hourly rainfall totals between 70 to 100 mm are likely, increasing to 100 to 160 mm over areas east of about Kyogle and Grafton.

Locations which may be affected include Lismore, Grafton, Tenterfield, Kyogle, Yamba and Maclean.

The State Emergency Service advises that people should:
* Don't drive, ride or walk through flood water.
* Keep clear of creeks and storm drains.
* If you are trapped by flash flooding, seek refuge in the highest available place and ring 000 if you need rescue.
* Be aware that run-off from rainfall in fire affected areas may behave differently and be more rapid. It may also contain debris such as ash, soil, trees and rocks.
* After bushfires, heavy rain and the loss of foliage can make the ground soft and heavy, leading to a greater chance of landslides.
* Stay vigilant and monitor conditions. Note that the landscape may have changed following bushfires.
* For emergency help in floods and storms, ring your local SES Unit on 132 500.