Flood Warning Issued for Roper and Waterhouse Rivers in Northern Territory

Alert Details

The Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued a Minor Flood Warning for the Waterhouse River and a Flood Warning for the Roper River. This update, Warning Number 14, was issued at 10:28 am ACST on Monday, March 9, 2026, following elevated river levels in the region.

Affected Areas

The warning specifically targets the Waterhouse River at Beswick Bridge and Diljin Hill, as well as the Roper River below Elsey Creek in the Northern Territory. A broader Flood Watch is also currently in effect for parts of the Top End.

What You Should Do

Residents are urged to prioritize safety: do not drive, walk, swim, or play in floodwaters. Stay away from flooded drains, rivers, streams, and waterways. It is critical to obey all road closure signs and plan travel to avoid flooded routes. For local emergency management advice, visit www.securent.nt.gov.au. For emergency assistance, contact the SES at 132 500, or call 000 immediately in life-threatening emergencies.

Expected Conditions

River levels along the Waterhouse River are currently falling slowly, but further rainfall expected over the coming days may cause renewed rises. At Beswick Bridge, the river was measured at 7.34 m at 10:15 am Monday; however, it is forecast to potentially reach the minor flood level of 7.70 m overnight Monday into Tuesday. While widespread heavy falls are unlikely, isolated heavier falls remain possible. At Diljin Hill, the river was recorded at 3.01 m and rising as of 9:45 am Monday.

Timeline

The current warning is effective immediately. The Bureau of Meteorology is monitoring the situation closely and expects to issue the next update by 11:30 am ACST on Tuesday, March 10, 2026.