Flood Watch Issued for Bonaparte and North West Coastal River Catchments in Northern Territory

Alert Details

The Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued a Flood Watch (IDD20595) for parts of the Bonaparte and North West Coastal River catchments. This alert serves as early advice for possible flooding within the specified catchments as conditions develop.

Affected Areas

According to the Bureau of Meteorology, the following catchments are likely to be affected:

• Upper Victoria River
• Victoria River below Kalkarindji
• Fitzmaurice River
• Moyle River
• Lower Daly River (Localised flooding)
• Finniss River

What You Should Do

Residents and travelers are advised not to drive, walk, swim, or play in floodwater due to dangerous conditions. Stay away from flooded drains, rivers, streams, and other waterways. Obey all road closure signs and plan travel ahead to avoid flooded roads. It is critical to check road conditions before traveling as roads may become impassable and communities or homesteads may become isolated. Check the ABC and local media for updates. For emergency assistance, contact the SES at 132 500. In life-threatening emergencies, call 000 immediately.

Expected Conditions

A monsoon trough is currently developing across northern Australia. A tropical low (30U) is expected to develop on Monday inland of the Joseph Bonaparte Gulf before moving slowly toward the west coast. With catchments already wet from recent rainfall, frequent showers and thunderstorms—including some heavy falls—may cause significant water level rises in rivers and creeks. Prolonged overland flooding and ponding are possible starting Sunday.

Timeline

The Flood Watch is effective as of Sunday, March 1, 2026. The tropical low is expected to develop on Monday, March 2. The Bureau of Meteorology expects to issue the next update by 2:30 PM ACST on Monday, March 2, 2026.