In the early evening on 23 November 1996, Coffs Harbour experienced flash flooding from heavy rainfall when up to 300 millimetres of rain fell in a two-hour period. This caused water to rise approximately 1.5 metres in the centre of the town, damaging most shops. The severe storm was a result of an off-shore low-pressure system that was strengthened by the steep ranges of Coffs Harbour.

Coffs Creek flooded, which was intensified by the high tide. One person drowned after being swept away by the rising flood water.

Approximately 300 people were moved to higher ground due to inundation. An estimated 260 homes and 200 commercial buildings were inundated above floor level. Crops were destroyed and mudslides covered the Pacific Highway.

After the event it was reported that the flood level was around one metre higher than the Council’s predicted 100-year flood, which informed their flood management plan. The Council subsequently commissioned a revised flood study for Coffs Creek.

The Insurance Council of Australia estimated the 1996 damage at $20 million, with the 2011 estimated normalised cost of $67 million.