Flood Watch Issued for Far Western New South Wales and Lower Murrumbidgee River Catchments
The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a flood watch for Far Western NSW and the Lower Murrumbidgee River as heavy rainfall threatens to cause localised flooding and isolate communities.
Alert Details
The Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued a Flood Watch (IDN36503) for parts of Far Western New South Wales and the Lower Murrumbidgee River catchments. This alert serves as early advice for possible flooding within specified catchments due to an approaching weather system.
Affected Areas
The following catchments and districts are included in the watch area:
- Lower Murrumbidgee River (Localised)
- Willandra Lakes
- Paroo River (NSW) (Note: A Minor flood warning is currently in effect for the Paroo River)
- Darling River (Localised)
- Mount Gunderbooka to Wokabity Lake
- Bynguano-Lower Barrier Ranges
- Danggali Rivers and Creeks
- Cooper Creek
- Lake Frome
- Bulla-Bancannia District
What You Should Do
Residents and travelers in the affected regions are urged to follow these safety guidelines:
- Do not drive, walk, swim, or play in floodwater as it is extremely dangerous.
- Stay away from flooded drains, rivers, streams, and other waterways.
- Obey all road closure signs and plan travel routes to avoid flooded areas.
- Check road conditions before traveling, as access may be cut off in the coming days.
- For emergency assistance, contact the NSW SES at 132 500. In life-threatening situations, call 000 immediately.
Expected Conditions
A slow-moving low pressure system situated over central Australia is extending a trough across western and southern New South Wales. Widespread rainfall is expected starting Sunday, with areas of heavy falls likely to continue over the coming days. Because catchments are already wet from recent rainfall, they are expected to respond quickly to additional precipitation. This may lead to river and creek level rises, localised flooding, and overland inundation. Some communities may face isolation due to impacted road access.
Timeline
The Flood Watch was issued at 12:07 pm AEDT on Sunday, March 1, 2026. The situation is being monitored, and the next update is scheduled to be issued by 1:00 pm AEDT on Monday, March 2, 2026.
Source: BOM Official Notice