Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Heavy Rainfall in Northern Rivers and Snowy Mountains

Alert Details

The Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning (IDN21033) for heavy rainfall. This alert is classified as a top priority for immediate broadcast and was issued at 1:59 pm local time on Friday, February 27, 2026.

Affected Areas

The warning covers parts of the Northern Rivers, South West Slopes, and Snowy Mountains Forecast Districts in New South Wales. Specific locations that may be impacted include:

• Lismore
• Cooma
• Jindabyne
• Adaminaby
• Khancoban
• Ballina

What You Should Do

The State Emergency Service (SES) advises residents in the affected areas to take the following precautions:

• Keep clear of creeks and storm drains.
• Do not walk, ride, or drive through flood water.
• If you are trapped by flash flooding, seek refuge in the highest available place and call 000 if you need rescue.
• Stay indoors and away from windows; keep children and pets inside.
• For emergency help in floods and storms, contact the SES at 132 500.

Expected Conditions

An easterly moist onshore flow is currently generating persistent showers and thunderstorms across the Northern Rivers. Simultaneously, slow-moving heavy thunderstorms have developed over the Snowy Mountains. These conditions are likely to produce heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding within the warning area over the next several hours.

Timeline

The warning was issued at 1:59 pm on Friday, February 27, 2026. The hazardous conditions are expected to persist throughout the afternoon, with the next official update scheduled for release by 5:00 pm.