Rain has returned to Moree on Monday, with heavy falls expected throughout the North West in the afternoon as a number of rivers remain on flood watch.
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Moree is just outside a severe weather warning which has been issued for the North West by the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM), which could lead to more flooding.
The Gwydir River at Yarraman Bridge peaked at 5.47m around 6pm Friday, after days of flood warnings.
The river is now on flood watch, with the BoM expecting minor to moderate flooding following the predicted heavy rainfall which is making its way through the region on Monday.
BoM meteorologist Helen Reid said local catchments are already quite wet, and the New England North West could expect another 50mm to 70mm of rain on Monday.
"There is the possibility of thunderstorms more likely today and we're expecting heavy rainfall to be associated with them, not so much the damaging winds and large hail this time," she said.
"It's just a very moist environment and all that moisture is ready to come down at once."
She said "anywhere" could be susceptible to flash flooding as a big band of rain moves across northern NSW, and if a thunderstorm "pops up" it could significantly increase the amount of rain that is dumped.
The State Emergency Service (SES) said people should not drive or walk through flood water, should keep clear of creeks and storm drains, should seek refuge during flash flooding and ring Triple Zero if needed, and stay vigilant.
The BoM warned flood water or run off may behave differently than expected in areas recovering from bushfire.
For emergency help in floods and storms, ring the local SES unit on 132 500 or Triple Zero.
Locals are urged to keep an eye on the latest flood updates and follow SES advice.
"This flood watch means that people living or working along rivers and streams must monitor the latest weather forecasts and warnings and be ready to move to higher ground should flooding develop," the BoM update reads.
Ms Reid said some dreary conditions could continue on Tuesday, but Monday will see the "tail end" of the rain event.
Rain is expected to ease in Moree on Tuesday, with up to 20mm predicted, while it should clear up to a mostly sunny day on Wednesday.
Christmas Eve is expected to be cloudy with a top of 27, while Christmas Day is forecast to be mostly sunny, reaching a pleasant 31 degrees.
