Early this afternoon, severe weather triggered flash flooding in the Northern Rivers area of New South Wales, impacting cities such as Lismore, Byron Bay, Bangalow, and Mullumbimby. According to meteorological reports, 106mm of rain fell in a mere three hours at Coopers Shoot near Bangalow, leading to rapid water accumulation and placing residents at risk. The State Emergency Service (SES) responded to the crisis, with Deputy Zone Commander Kristine McDonald stating that the main street of Bangalow was severely inundated, indicating the scale of the flooding.

Emergency services reported that three residents required rescue due to the flooding. This included the evacuation of two residents from their homes on Deacon Street, along with another individual who was trapped in a vehicle overwhelmed by rising waters. In total, around 20 vehicles sustained damage due to the flooding, illustrating the impact on local transportation and property. The quick response of emergency services was crucial in preventing further harm to the residents caught in this sudden weather event.

Locals expressed shock at the speed and severity of the flooding. One resident, Linda Sparrow, recalled her experience of a sudden warning to move her car as floodwaters began to rise rapidly. Such extreme weather events underscore the ongoing challenges posed by climate change and varying weather patterns, requiring communities and authorities to remain vigilant and prepared for similar occurrences in the future.