Flood Watch Issued for Central and Eastern Inland Northern Territory Catchments

Alert Details

The Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued Flood Watch number 5 (IDD20590) for parts of the Eastern, Central, and Western Inland areas of the Northern Territory. This alert serves as early advice for possible flooding within specified catchments due to a broad trough and an embedded low-pressure system.

Affected Areas

The following catchments and regions are included in the flood watch:

• Georgina River and Eyre Creek
• Finke River and Stephenson Creek
• MacDonnell Ranges
• Simpson Desert
• Central Desert
• Tanami Desert (eastern areas)
• Barkly (southern areas)

What You Should Do

Residents and travelers are advised not to drive, walk, swim, or play in floodwaters as conditions are dangerous. Stay away from flooded drains, rivers, streams, and other waterways. It is critical to obey all road closure signs and plan ahead to avoid driving on flooded roads. For emergency assistance, contact the SES at 132 500. In life-threatening situations, call 000.

Expected Conditions

A broad trough over central Northern Territory, combined with a slow-moving low over the southern Barkly District, is expected to bring widespread heavy rainfall. Significant accumulated rainfall is anticipated over the next few days. River and creek level rises, localized flooding, and overland inundation are already occurring in some areas and are expected to expand. These conditions will likely impact road access, and some communities may become isolated.

Timeline

The alert was issued at 12:25 pm ACST on Sunday, February 22, 2026. Flooding is currently occurring in the Barkly and Georgina Rivers. These conditions are expected to extend into central, western, and eastern catchments from Sunday into Monday and Tuesday. In the MacDonnell Ranges, Finke River, Stephenson Creek, and Simpson Desert, flooding is possible starting Monday.