Source: Bureau of Meteorology

Issued at 12:59 pm AEST on Wednesday 27 May 2026

Flood Watch Number: 2

MINOR FLOODING POSSIBLE FOR THE HUNTER AND PARTS OF THE MID NORTH COAST FROM OVERNIGHT THURSDAY INTO FRIDAY

A broad trough over northern and eastern NSW is expected to generate widespread moderate rainfall and thunderstorms over the next few days. A low within the trough is expected to result in heavy rainfall for parts of the Hunter and southern parts of the Mid North Coast from late Thursday.

Minor flooding may develop along the Orara, Manning and Gloucester, Bellinger, Hastings, Paterson WIlliams and parts of the Hunter Rivers from Thursday into Friday. Uncertainty remains in the location and timing of the heaviest falls, and the Flood Watch area will be reviewed over the coming days.

Catchments in the Flood Watch area are moderately wet.

Flood classes (minor, moderate, major) are only defined for catchments where the Bureau provides a flood warning service.

Catchments likely to be affected include:
Orara River
Minor flooding

Coffs Coast

Bellinger and Kalang Rivers
Minor flooding

Hastings River
Minor flooding

Manning and Gloucester Rivers
Minor flooding

Goulburn and Upper Hunter Rivers
Minor flooding

Wollombi Brook and Lower Hunter River
Minor flooding

Paterson and Williams Rivers
Minor flooding

Newcastle Area

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