[Published 9am Tuesday 19 May 2026]
The NSW State Emergency Service (SES) is urging people in the Northern Rivers to take care this morning, with heavy rain and high tides causing widespread road closures and isolating some communities.
They say, “Since yesterday afternoon, NSW SES volunteers and emergency service partners have responded to 197 incidents and carried out three rescues, helping people and vehicles trapped in floodwaters at Numinbah, Brewongle and Goonengerry”.
Warnings have been issued for Uki, Bangalow, Nimbin, The Channon and surrounds; Lismore and surrounds, as well as parts of Tweed Heads and surrounds.
Local SES posted on social media, “Last evening’s extreme wet weather saw our team of volunteers respond to several requests for assistance including for a flood rescue at Goonengerry at approximately 7.15pm”.
NSW SES Assistant Commissioner Dean Storey said flooded roads and isolation remain the biggest risks today.
“The safest thing people can do right now is stay where they are and avoid travelling until floodwaters go down,” he said.
“We’ve already seen several flood rescues that could have ended very badly. Thanks to the quick response from NSW SES and our emergency service partners, everyone was brought to safety.”
Moderate to heavy rainfall since Sunday night has caused rivers to rise across the region. Minor flooding has been observed at Tumbulgum. Residents are encouraged to keep up to date with the latest conditions.
Uki, Fingal Head, Chinderah
People living in low-lying areas of Uki, Fingal Head, Fingal Head South, Crabbes Creek, Tumbulgum and Wollumbin (Mount Warning), Stotts Creek, Chinderah, Burringbar and surrounds, Mooball, West Burringbar, are being advised to not enter into floodwater and prepare for possible isolation, with access roads likely to be impacted from heavy rain.
Assistant Commissioner Storey said the NSW SES is working closely with local communities.
“Many of these communities are experienced with flooding, and our community action teams are checking in on residents and supporting their wellbeing,” he said.
“People are staying informed and keeping an eye on conditions.”
Conditions are expected to improve later today as tides fall and floodwaters begin to recede.
Stay informed: Download the Hazards Near Me app or visit ses.nsw.gov.au for the latest warnings and updates.
Qld SES reported that by May 19 at 5.20am, there had been 320 requests for assistance since 5am yesterday, 18 May.
‘Tasking requests have predominately been for tarping (76%) and sandbagging (18%).
‘Tasking requests based on location: 106 – Gold Coast LGA; 64 – Brisbane LGA; 51 – Logan LGA; 42 – Redland LGA; 35 – Moreton Bay LGA.’
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