Flood Watch Issued for Finniss, Fitzmaurice, Lower Daly, and Moyle Rivers in Northern Territory

Alert Details

The Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued a Flood Watch (IDD20595) for several river catchments in the Northern Territory. This alert serves as early advice for possible flooding due to a developing monsoon trough and a tropical low (30U).

Affected Areas

The flood watch covers parts of the Bonaparte and North West Coastal Rivers catchments. Specific river systems likely to be affected include:

• Fitzmaurice River
• Moyle River
• Lower Daly River (Localised flooding)
• Finniss River

What You Should Do

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

• Do not drive, walk, swim, or play in floodwaters as it is dangerous.
• Stay away from flooded drains, rivers, streams, and other waterways.
• Obey all road closure signs and plan travel routes to avoid flooded roads.
• Check road conditions before traveling, as some communities and homesteads may become isolated.
• Stay informed by checking the ABC and local media for updates.
• For emergency assistance, contact the SES at 132 500. In life-threatening situations, 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. Because catchments are already wet from recent rainfall, frequent showers and thunderstorms—some with heavy falls—are expected to cause significant water level rises in rivers and creeks. Prolonged overland flooding and ponding are anticipated, and roads may become impassable.

Timeline

The flood watch is effective starting Sunday, March 1, 2026. The situation is expected to persist as the monsoon trough and low-pressure system develop. The Bureau of Meteorology is scheduled to issue the next update by 2:30 PM ACST on Sunday, March 1, 2026.