Flood Watch Issued for Far North West New South Wales Catchments

Alert Details

The Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued an initial Flood Watch (IDN36503) for parts of the far north west of New South Wales. This alert provides early advice of possible flooding within specified catchments due to an approaching weather system.

Affected Areas

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

• Paroo River (NSW)
• Mount Gunderbooka to Wokabity Lake
• Bynguano-Lower Barrier Ranges
• Cooper Creek
• Lake Frome
• Bulla-Bancannia District

What You Should Do

Residents and travelers in the affected areas are advised to take the following precautions:

• Safety First: Do not drive, walk, swim, or play in floodwater as it is dangerous.
• Stay Clear: Stay away from flooded drains, rivers, streams, and other waterways.
• Travel Planning: Obey all road closure signs and check road conditions before traveling, as some communities may become isolated.
• Stay Informed: Monitor local media and the ABC for updates. For emergency assistance, contact the NSW SES at 132 500. In life-threatening situations, call 000 immediately.

Expected Conditions

A very humid airmass associated with a slow-moving tropical low over the southern Northern Territory is extending a trough into northwest NSW. This system is expected to deepen on Tuesday, bringing widespread heavy rainfall and localized intense falls. While catchments are currently relatively dry, they are expected to respond to significant accumulated rainfall. Isolated river and creek level rises, localized flooding, and overland inundation are anticipated.

Timeline

The flood watch was issued at 12:34 pm AEDT on Monday, February 23, 2026. Flooding conditions are expected to develop starting Tuesday, February 24. These conditions are likely to affect road access in the coming days. The next update from the Bureau of Meteorology is scheduled to be issued by 1:00 PM AEDT on Tuesday, February 24.