This weather event has the potential to cause flash flooding and riverine flooding.

Widespread rainfall of 50mm to 100mm is forecast with some isolated heavy downfalls up to 200mm possible, the BoM has predicted.

With recent rainfall, many of the region's river catchments are already saturated. The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a flood watch for the Orara, Bellinger and Nambucca Rivers.

Port Macquarie airport's rain gauge recorded 373.6mm in February after 232mm in January.

At Mount Seaview, 448mm fell in February after a 489mm soaking in January. The March total so far sits at 204.6mm.

At Kempsey, 438mm has fallen to date this year while in Taree, 555mm has been recorded.

Read more: Fast and fierce; stormchasers capture nature's fury

With the possibility of further severe storms and heavy rain, NSW SES Northern Zone Chief Superintendent Steve Patterson urges residents to prepare their homes now especially if there is a break in the weather.

"Bring in or secure any outdoor items in the yard or on the balcony, check your gutters are clear and your roof is in good condition, trim any overhanging branches and take care when travelling in severe weather conditions," Supt Patterson said.

"Rainfall over the last few weeks in the Mid North Coast, Central Coast and Hunter area has contributed to a number of soaked catchments. This means water runoff and flash flooding is more likely in these areas."

NSW SES urges residents and visitors to take care when driving in wet weather on the local roads, especially if you are driving in upper catchment areas where low lying causeways overflow and are dangerous to cross when flooded.

NSW SES advise to never drive, ride or walk through floodwater as this is the main cause of death during floods.

"It's important that drivers slow down on the roads and drive to the conditions," Supt Patterson said.

"If you come across a flooded road please make the safe decision. Turn around, it's just not worth the risk."

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