The Tweed Local Government Area (LGA) in the Northern Rivers of New South Wales includes the Tweed River system, with its main tributaries, the Oxley and Rous Rivers, and the Cobaki and Terranora Broadwaters. There is also a separate system of coastal creeks affecting communities like Burringbar, Mooball, Crabbes Creek, and coastal villages such as Kingscliff, Cabarita Beach/Bogangar, Hastings Point, and Pottsville.
The local information page provides valuable resources for your Local Government Area (LGA). You can explore flood information for your local river catchment through Local Flood Insights, access local flood plans and guides, and connect with local councils and NSW SES units.
Tweed Heads South and Banora Point
The area frequently experiences severe weather events leading to flooding. Major floods occurred in 1954, 1974, and 2017, with the potential for larger events. Flooding in Banora Point and Tweed Heads South can be caused by local runoff or backwater flows from Terranora Broadwater or the Tweed River. High tides, storm surges, and steep urban development contribute to flash flooding. In June 2005, 386mm of rain fell in 24 hours, leading to widespread flash flooding, home inundations, road closures, landslides, and power outages. Coolangatta Airport was also forced to close.
Tweed Heads West, Cobaki, and Seagulls Estate
These suburbs are prone to flooding from Bilambil, Terranora, and Cobaki Creeks, with significant events recorded in 1954, 1974, and 2017. Flooding can isolate areas and lead to road closures, requiring evacuation of residents, businesses, and care facilities. Seagulls Estate is particularly vulnerable, with up to 1.5 metres of floodwater in major events. Evacuation may be necessary within 3-4 hours during flash floods.
Chinderah and Fingal Head
Chinderah and Fingal Head have a history of flooding, primarily from riverine sources exacerbated by high tides and storm surges. Significant floods in 1954, 1974, and 2017 suggest the potential for even higher levels. Major floods isolate low-lying areas, requiring evacuations. Flash flooding and stormwater overflow are additional risks. Flooding is a certainty in these areas.
Murwillumbah CBD
Murwillumbah, in the Tweed Valley, is regularly affected by severe weather and flooding. Significant floods occurred in 1954, 1974, 1989, 2001, 2008, and 2017. The town is vulnerable due to its location near the confluence of the Oxley and Tweed Rivers. Flooding in the CBD is caused by stormwater backup and overtopping. Larger floods than those in 2017 are possible, and residents and businesses need to be aware of their risk.
Tweed Coast
The Tweed Coast is prone to flash flooding, particularly in Cudgen, Reserve, Cudgera, Christies, Mooball, and Crabbes Creeks, which rise and fall quickly due to the steep upper catchments. While riverine flooding is rare, major floods can inundate towns like Bogangar/Cabarita Beach, Hastings Point, Pottsville, Burringbar, Mooball, Wooyung, and Crabbes Creek. The most severe flood on record occurred in February 1954, with the most recent in March 2017, causing widespread disruption and road closures, including on the M1 Pacific Highway near Chinderah.