During the period between 7 - 14 April, Lismore, New South Wales and the surrounding region sustained heavy rainfall causing many areas to flood. The worst affected townships included Coraki, Woodburn, Broadwater, Wardell, Iluka and Yamba, with reports of water up to 1 m deep around many homes. Woodburn and lower Richmond were isolated as a result.

The Richmond River system carried flood water to the sea however high tides and a six metre swell at the mouth of the river restricted the outflow of water. The Pacific Highway was closed for a period at Murwillumbah and Chinderah, and other major road closures occurred.

The State Emergency Services (SES) accommodated and provided meals for approximately 1150 people. Two caravan parks and one nursing home were evacuated. Significant crop damage occurred.

The Insurance Council of Australia estimated the 1988 damage at $25 million, with the 2011 estimated normalised cost of $139 million.