Source: Bureau of Meteorology

Initial Flood Watch for parts of the Northern Rivers

Issued at 1:34 pm AEDT on Thursday 12 February 2026 Flood Watch Number: 1

MINOR FLOODING POSSIBLE IN THE NORTHERN RIVERS FROM FRIDAY

A cold front and its associated trough is crossing much of the state during Thursday, before lingering and deepening about the northeast from Friday and into the weekend.

Moderate to heavy rainfall is forecast from Thursday evening through into the weekend across the Northern Rivers catchments. Locally intense falls are also possible with thunderstorms from Thursday evening through to Friday morning.

This rainfall may cause minor flooding in the Northern Rivers catchments from late Friday.

The Northern Rivers catchments are relatively dry.

The exact location and timing of the heaviest falls remain uncertain.

Localised river level rises and flash flooding are possible within the areas of heaviest rainfall.
Flood classes (minor, moderate and major) are only defined for catchments where the Bureau provides a flood warning service.

Catchments likely to be affected include:

Tweed and Rous Rivers Minor flooding

Brunswick River and Marshalls Creek Minor flooding

Wilsons River Minor flooding

Richmond River Minor 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.


Rainfall and River Conditions Map