Evacuation orders have been issued across the NSW Northern Rivers region, reaching as far south as Port Macquarie, in response to looming flood threats. Lismore, in particular, is preparing for potentially severe flooding, with officials indicating that the Wilsons River may exceed levee levels by noon tomorrow, which could result in extensive damage to the town.
NSW Premier Chris Minns announced that evacuation orders now encompass Bowraville, parts of Macksville, sections of Port Macquarie, North Shore, Settlement Point, Hastings, River Drive, Hibberd Drive, South Golden Beach, and New Brighton. He highlighted a commendable response from the community, noting that a significant number of residents—thousands—have adhered to these evacuation directives.
Minns urged those who have remained in their homes to reconsider their position. “If you’re one of the few people still in your house in an evacuation zone, you may find yourself completely isolated,” he warned.
NSW SES Operations Commander Stuart Fisher reported that over 29,000 households have received evacuation warnings, affecting approximately 19,000 individuals. Emergency services conducted five flood rescues overnight due to rising water levels.
The Bureau of Meteorology forecasts that the Wilsons River in Lismore, currently at 5.10 metres—above the minor flood threshold of 4.20 metres—could reach moderate flooding levels by Friday evening and potentially escalate to major flooding, exceeding 9.70 metres, by Saturday morning as additional rainfall is expected. The levee protecting Lismore’s central business district stands at a maximum height of around 10.7 metres.
Officials are monitoring flood conditions closely, including levees in surrounding areas like Kyogle and Murwumbillah, and further updates on water levels will be provided. Meanwhile, NSW Police have advised against using local roads unless evacuation is necessary, underscoring the importance of keeping routes clear for emergency services and resupply efforts.